Artisans of Lakri Fazalpur

28.8214° N, 78.7271° E

“In every cast, every engraving, there is the heartbeat of a community — preserving legacy through the language of metal.”

In the village of Lakri Fazalpur, metal takes on a life of its own. Tucked within the craft-rich district of Moradabad, this close-knit community has shaped brass, copper, and aluminum for generations. What may appear as simple objects — barware, trays, cutlery, bowls — are, in truth, expressions of heritage, patience, and pride. Here, metalworking is more than a vocation; it is a lineage, a quiet devotion passed through families who have long honored the rhythm of the furnace and the artistry of the hand.

A Craft Rooted in Royal Tradition

The origins of Lakri Fazalpur’s metalcraft trace back to the Mughal courts, where artisans were sought for their mastery in creating ornate vessels and ceremonial pieces. Over centuries, this expertise evolved into a distinctive local language of form and detail. Today, their creations still echo the grace of those royal commissions — refined shapes, balanced proportions, and patterns inspired by nature, architecture, and spirituality.

Each piece from this village reflects the essence of Indian metalwork: purposeful, soulful, and shaped slowly, with intention.

The Art of Lost-Wax Casting

At the heart of Lakri Fazalpur’s craft lies the lost-wax casting process, an ancient technique requiring remarkable precision and patience. Artisans sculpt each design in wax, apply layers of clay, and then melt the wax away — leaving behind a delicate cavity ready to receive molten metal.

Once cast, the true artistry begins.
Surfaces come alive through:

• hand engraving
• chiseled motifs
• etched patterns
• matte and high-shine polishing

Every line, curve, and contour reveals hours of human effort and a deep respect for the material. No two pieces are identical — each carries subtle variations that define authentic handcrafted luxury.

Crafting Through Change

Like many traditional craft communities, Lakri Fazalpur faces modern challenges. Machine-made goods have flooded the market, offering speed and low-cost alternatives that threaten the survival of time-intensive handmade work. Access to quality raw materials is inconsistent, and younger generations often leave in search of more predictable livelihoods.

Yet the artisans remain steadfast. Their resilience stems from an unwavering belief in the value of their craft — in the irreplaceable beauty of something shaped by hand, not machine.

Tradition Meets Today

The new generation of artisans is weaving innovation into heritage. While preserving ancestral techniques, they are exploring contemporary silhouettes, subtle textures, and refined finishes that speak to modern sensibilities. This evolution keeps the craft alive, relevant, and deeply resonant in today’s global design landscape.

Their work now bridges centuries — honoring the past while shaping the future.

A Partnership with Purpose

At GAURI KOHLI, we are honored to partner with the artisans of Lakri Fazalpur. By working directly with these skilled makers, we help ensure fair wages, sustainable livelihoods, and greater access to global markets.

Every piece that leaves the village carries more than craftsmanship — it carries the story of a community that has kept metalworking alive through devotion, creativity, and heart.

Through these collaborations, we celebrate not only the art but the artisans themselves, ensuring their legacy continues to shine in homes around the world.