Mojari Craft

About Mojari Craft

• Mojari is a traditional handcrafted leather footwear of Jodhpur that has now received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
• Origins:
  • Traditional Community: The Mojari craft is closely associated with the Jingar community, which traditionally made saddles, leather sheaths, and other leather goods for armies.
  • Shift to Shoemaking: Around 250 years ago, the community gradually shifted from saddle making to shoemaking, and Mojari gradually became their main occupation.
  • Historical Identity: Once patronised by the royals, Mojari gradually evolved into a distinctive craft that gave Jodhpur a unique cultural identity.
• Key Features:
  • Handcrafted Footwear: The Jodhpuri Mojari is entirely handmade using leather from camel, goat, cow, and buffalo.
  • Material Used: Buffalo leather is used for the durable outer sole, while suede leather is used for the upper part.
    • The embroidery uses a special thread from Surat that combines the softness of silk with the strength of nylon.
  • Traditional Craftsmanship: Men carry out leather cutting, punching, and stitching.
    • women create intricate embroidery by drawing designs from memory before stitching.
  • Distinctive Design: Mojari is made in two halves with a densely embroidered upper part.
    • Traditionally, both shoes have identical designs and can be worn on either foot.
  • Customisation: Artisans also prepare customized Mojaris for fashion designers and the wedding market, including designs embroidered with gold or silver threads.
  • Comfort: Jodhpuri Mojari is known for its comfort in Rajasthan’s hot climate because its design is suitable for local conditions.