Our recent trip to Jaipur began as a plan to attend a family wedding. I had visited the city a couple of times before, but for him, it was his first experience in the Pink City. While weddings are always joyous, we thought—why not turn this opportunity into something even more memorable? A little vacation, a little adventure.

We both wanted to do something different this time—not just sightseeing or hopping between popular tourist spots. We craved something more immersive, something that would allow us to connect with Jaipur’s rich artistic heritage. That’s when we stumbled upon Rajasthan Studio, a platform known for its curated art experiences with award-winning Rajasthani artisans.

As someone studying interior design, I’ve always been drawn to traditional crafts and creative processes. When I saw the variety of hands-on workshops Rajasthan Studio offered—from miniature painting to blue pottery—it felt like discovering a hidden treasure. But one experience, in particular, stood out: Tarkashi—the age-old art of brass inlay in wood.

We had never heard of Tarkashi before, and that made it all the more intriguing. We instantly knew this would be the highlight of our trip.

Stepping Into the World of Tarkashi

The workshop was hosted at the home of Mohan Lal Sharma Ji, a nationally recognized master of the Tarkashi craft. His residence wasn’t a grand studio or a showroom—it was a humble, traditional Rajasthani home that immediately made us feel like we were stepping into a different time.

The room where we were to learn Tarkashi was filled with his awards, medals, and intricate wooden artefacts, each telling its own story. The detailed brass work on the boxes, panels, and decor pieces was absolutely mesmerising. Some had taken him months or even years to complete, a testament to the patience and dedication this art form requires.

We were welcomed with warm smiles by both the Rajasthan Studio team and Mohan Ji’s family. There was something incredibly grounding about being taught an ancient art inside a real artisan’s home—far from the tourist buzz, in a space filled with soul and history.

A Journey Through Craftsmanship

The experience began with Mohan Ji explaining the origins of Tarkashi and how he had learned the art under the guidance of his elder brother. His stories made the art form come alive—this wasn’t just decorative woodwork, it was a legacy, passed down through generations.

He demonstrated how to sketch a pattern on the wooden surface, then used fine tools to carve grooves along the design. Watching him work was almost hypnotic—his hands moved with such ease and confidence, but when we tried it ourselves, we quickly realized how demanding and precise the process really is.

Next came the brass inlay. He carefully pressed fine brass wires into the carved grooves. We followed along, slowly understanding the rhythm and technique behind it. Then came the tiniest of crystals, which Mohan Ji delicately picked and placed using a traditional method he had spent years perfecting. It was a humbling reminder of the dedication these art forms demand.

Finally, we polished our work, smoothing the surface with traditional tools until it gleamed, and completed our very own Tarkashi keychain. It wasn’t perfect, but it was ours—handmade with care, guided by a true master.

More Than Just Art — A Piece of Rajasthan to Take Home

Before leaving, Mohan Ji showed us more of his creations—ornate wooden boxes, nameplates, trays, and decor pieces all adorned with elegant brass designs. One of the boxes, in particular, caught our eye. It was too beautiful to pass up, and we were surprised to learn we could purchase it directly from him at one-fifth the price compared to stores and showrooms.

It felt good to support the artisan directly, knowing that our money was going into preserving this rare, handmade tradition—not into middlemen and retail markups.

To end the workshop on the most heartfelt note, Mohan Ji served us fresh, homestyle poha, a simple yet delicious treat that made us feel even more at home. That small gesture stayed with us—proof that the experience wasn’t just about learning an art form; it was about being welcomed into someone’s world.

A Truly Enriching Experience

Walking away from the Tarkashi experience, we weren’t just carrying a handcrafted keychain—we were carrying stories, inspiration, and a deep respect for the artistry and culture of Rajasthan.

In a world where machine-made goods dominate, it was refreshing to slow down, work with our hands, and appreciate the beauty of imperfection and patience. This workshop reminded us that true craftsmanship is not just about the final product but about the process, tradition, and heart behind it.

If you're ever in Jaipur and looking to go beyond sightseeing, we highly recommend exploring one of Rajasthan Studio’s immersive art experiences. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a curious traveler, it’s a rare opportunity to connect with the soul of Rajasthan through its living traditions.