Pital Nagri – The Brass City of India: Moradabad’s Glorious Past, Artistic Present & Promising Future
Nestled on the banks of the River Ramganga in Uttar Pradesh lies Moradabad, famously known as Pital Nagri—The Brass City of India. Renowned for its exquisite brass handicrafts, rich heritage, and dynamic contribution to India’s economy and culture, Moradabad is not just a city; it is a living museum of metal artistry, patriotism, and enterprise.
As a prominent brass city in India, Moradabad has carved a global niche, exporting intricate brassware to the far corners of the world. From the bustling bylanes of the city to international trade fairs, Moradabad’s brilliance continues to shine. Let’s explore the story of this iconic city—from its historical roots to its present-day development and future promise.
A Glimpse Into Moradabad’s Rich History
Founded in 1625 by Rustam Khan, Moradabad was originally named Rustamnagar. Later, it was renamed after Prince Murad Baksh, the son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. With its strategic location and fertile lands, the city quickly became a center of commerce and craftsmanship.
During the Mughal era, artisans from across the subcontinent were drawn to Moradabad due to royal patronage and abundant resources like copper and zinc—key ingredients in the making of brass. The city’s brass handicrafts industry took root here and has been flourishing ever since.
Pital Nagri’s Role in the Indian Independence Movement
While Moradabad is primarily celebrated for its art, the city also played a meaningful role during the Indian independence struggle. Local artisans and traders often supported underground movements, contributing funds and resources discreetly to aid freedom fighters.
The city also became a symbol of resilience. Many artisans would incorporate symbols of resistance into their metalwork, subtly expressing their patriotic sentiments. Thus, even amid colonial suppression, Moradabad’s brassware became a silent yet shining beacon of Indian pride and identity.
The Art and Soul of Brass – Moradabad’s Legacy
What sets Moradabad apart is the centuries-old tradition of brass craftsmanship. The city is home to thousands of skilled artisans who pass their craft down from generation to generation. The brass products crafted here—ranging from intricately engraved utensils to decorative items, religious idols, and furniture—showcase India’s cultural richness.
The brass handicrafts of Moradabad are known for their exceptional detailing, ethnic designs, and durability. These items often feature traditional motifs like peacocks, elephants, flowers, and geometric patterns, with each piece being a result of painstaking handwork and artistic intuition.
The city’s artisans use a mix of traditional and modern techniques such as:
- Casting and Moulding
- Hand Engraving
- Electroplating
- Polishing and Lacquering
This harmonious blend of old and new keeps Moradabad’s brassware relevant in both domestic and international markets.
Thathera: The Ancient Art of Crafting Brass Utensils
One cannot speak of Moradabad’s brass industry without mentioning the Thathera community. Thatheras are traditional metalworkers specializing in making brass and copper utensils, and their work is nothing short of heritage craftsmanship.
Declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, the art of the Thatheras involves complex techniques of heating, hammering, and shaping brass into utensils used in Indian kitchens and temples. Their products—like lotas (water vessels), parats (trays), and handis (cooking pots)—are still widely used for their health benefits and cultural significance.
In Moradabad, this art form has evolved with time. Today, Thatheras create a mix of functional and decorative pieces that cater to both traditional households and luxury markets globally.
Moradabad’s Modern Contribution to India’s Economy
Today, Moradabad is more than just a historical and cultural landmark—it is an economic powerhouse in India’s metal exports. The city contributes significantly to the nation’s exports of handicrafts and metalware.
Key Highlights:
- Moradabad contributes nearly 40% of India’s brass exports.
- The city houses over 600 export units and more than 5,000 manufacturing units.
- Brassware from Moradabad is exported to countries like USA, UK, Germany, Canada, and the Middle East.
- The industry employs over 200,000 artisans, many of whom are from families that have been in the trade for generations.
Thanks to this massive output, Moradabad is often referred to as the “Brass Capital of the World”, drawing attention from global buyers and importers.
Government Support and Industrial Growth
Recognizing the potential of Moradabad’s brass industry, both state and central governments have taken initiatives to support its growth. Notable developments include:
- Establishment of Moradabad SEZ (Special Economic Zone): India’s first SEZ for handicrafts, providing export-friendly infrastructure and tax benefits.
- Design and Technical Support Centers: These help artisans modernize their designs and adopt eco-friendly techniques.
- Skill Development Initiatives: Government-sponsored training programs for young artisans in areas like CAD design, laser engraving, and e-commerce selling.
- International Buyer-Seller Meets: Hosted to promote global trade and introduce artisans to international markets.
Digital Transformation and E-Commerce Boom
The rise of e-commerce and digital platforms has opened new avenues for brass artisans in Moradabad. Artisans now sell their products via online marketplaces like Amazon, Flipkart, Etsy, and IndiaMART, reaching customers worldwide without middlemen.
Many Moradabad-based brands are building their own websites and investing in SEO for brass products, social media marketing, and digital storytelling to connect with a younger, global audience.
By incorporating local SEO, showcasing authentic craftsmanship through content marketing, and optimizing for keywords like “handmade brass decor,” “traditional Indian brass items,” and “Moradabad brass exports,” these businesses are thriving in the digital age.
Moradabad is more than a city—it is a celebration of Indian craftsmanship, perseverance, and enterprise. As Pital Nagri, it continues to uphold centuries-old traditions while embracing modern technology and global trade. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, a trader, or a traveler, Moradabad’s story is bound to inspire.
In a world leaning toward mass production, Moradabad’s handcrafted brass reminds us of the value of tradition, skill, and artistic integrity. It truly is the beating heart of India’s brass legacy.