India's handicrafts give a comprehensive account of the glory and richness of the country's past and the magnificent achievements of Indian artisans over the past five thousand years. This book gives rightful recognition to the craftsmen of India whose achievements are perhaps more representative and symbolic of their nation than those of any other country across the world. It also enumerates the trials, tribulations and challenges that the country's craftsmen have faced with equanimity. Coming to the aid of the artisans was the Indian Cooperative Union and its Emporium - the Central Cottage Industries Emporium, or the Cottage as it is popularly called - which has in the past fifty years infused a fresh lease of life into the traditional Indian crafts industry by encouraging and preserving the arts of India.