About Dokra Craft
Rooted in a 4,000-year-old tradition, Dokra craft reflects the beauty of the ancient lost-wax casting technique. From history to process and tools, discover how artisans transform metal into timeless heritage.
The Timeless Art of Dokra
Dokra craft is an age-old tradition rooted in the ancient lost-wax metal casting technique that dates back over 4,000 years, as seen in the famous “Dancing Girl” of Mohenjo-daro. In Betul, this craft has been practiced for generations, producing exquisite figurines, ornaments, ritual objects, and decorative pieces in bell metal. Known for its rustic beauty, intricate detailing, and antique golden finish, Dokra from Betul not only preserves a vital part of India’s cultural heritage but also continues to sustain artisan families while gaining recognition in wider markets.
The Process
STEP 01
Core
Making
A clay core is shaped roughly in the form of the final object.
STEP 02
Wax Modeling
Beeswax mixed with resin and oil is molded over the clay core to form fine details.
STEP 03
Clay Covering
The wax model is covered with layers of fine clay, leaving a channel for wax to escape.
STEP 04
Wax Removal
The mold is heated so the wax melts and drains out, leaving a cavity.
STEP 05
Metal Pouring
Molten brass or bell-metal is poured into the cavity.
STEP 06
Mold
Breaking
Once cooled, the clay mold is broken to reveal the metal artifact.
STEP 07
Final
Finishing
Polishing, filing, and cleaning enhance the final product.
Tools & Raw Materials
Anthills Mud
Mud is the core material that is used for making the first model of the final product.
Water
Water is used for kneading mud and cow dung.
Cow Dung
Cow dung is mixed with mud to make the model.
Wax Threads
Wax threads are wound around the clay model.
Charcoal
Charcoal is burnt in the furnace to obtain high amount of heat.
Brass
It is one of the core substances that are used for making dhokra metal products.
Wood
Wood is used for firing purpose.
Furnace
Furnace is used for baking the clay model.
Graphite Container
Graphite container is used for arranging and melting metal (brass) crucibles.
Hammer
Hammer is used for removing the clay mould.
Customized Tool
It is used while rendering the required design.
Sand
It is mixed with clay.
Salt
It is added to metal crucibles while heating the metal.
Hacksaw Tool
This is used for cutting out the extras of the metal product.
File Tool
This tool is used for polishing purpose.
Big Sized Brush
This brush is used for dusting and cleaning of the clay particles.