
The Craft
Leather Craft
Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Cobbling together the iconic mojaris of Jodhpur
Jodhpur’s leather craftsmanship is best seen in its footwear, the mojari. Generations of the mochi (cobbler) community have transformed this craft, into a wearable work of art that is acclaimed worldwide.
The Making
The artisans use goat leather for the uppers and buffalo leather for the soles. The process involves weaving, punching, studding and sewing techniques.
Artisans shape the footwear using a three-piece wooden cast, or the copy of a foot. They skilfully stitch the leather together with thick cotton thread. The uppers of the mojari are embroidered using the chain and embellished further with silk threads, beads and appliqué work. The insoles also feature embroidery, often through cut-out motifs underlaid with contrasting coloured leather. For the lower part of the sole, artists offer stitched or cut-out motifs.
Legacy
The beauty of mojaris lies in the details. The artisans pay special attention to the stitching and patterning and the finished product is no less than a work of art. All these patterns tell unique stories, often inspired by nature, mythology, and local traditions.

Memory Vault
Authentic mojari patterns make no distinction between the left and right foot. Remarkably soft, these shoes can be easily rolled up or folded. Their upward-curled toe-ends resemble the twirled moustaches of Rajput men.
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