Likhai

Likhai (Hindi for 'writing') refers to the ancient woodcarving tradition of Uttarakhand, a North Indian mountain state.

[1] Given the rapid urbanization in the region and migration of artisans to larger cities for more lucrative jobs, the craft is said to be on the verge of "vanishing".

[2] There are no texts recording the history of the craft, and the skills and knowledge are passed down practically through apprenticeships.

[3] The motifs carved on windows, pillars or doorframes include: local flora and fauna, folklores, religious symbols, geometric patterns.

Likhai wood carving on the columns as seen in c.1860 in Almora Bazaar, Uttarakhand.