Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Villages of Ludia/Ludya, Dhordo and
Hodka in Gujarat, India
Ludia
is the northernmost that tourists are allowed to visit, 75 kms/46 miles from Bhuj.
A lovely, and clean, village with houses colorfully decorated on the outside, known for its
woodwork. Unfortunately, this was the only village where children, and adults, asked for
money as we walked around.
The Village of
Dhordo
is Muslim and no photography or video is allowed. Kantilal es-
corted us into Madame Sonia's compound, a master quilter, and embroiderer of both em-
broidery and "Mutva Mud work" whatever that is. I
think
this craft is a mixture of mud, glue
and horse dung, and is also known as "Mutva Mud Mirror Work." Mutva ancestors came to
this area of Kutch about 250 years ago when the ruler of Kutch gave them shelter in area of
Banni.
A fashion-crazy designer can get a lesson or two from the Kutch women who create em-
broideries in glass, bead, leather and mud work. There seemed to be no end to the embroid-
ery permutations with geometric and angular patterns, silk threads, wool and tiny mirrors.
Hodka Village
is not only famous for its leatherwork, but is where the wedding would
take place tomorrow. Kantilal led us through fields filled with large water buffalos, placidly
sitting around munching their cud, while we treaded carefully around the copious cow shit
until we reached the village. A very scared, little bride was secluded (and huddled) inside
one of the decorative houses. They allowed me to visit after a long procedure that culminated
in a
donation of rupees
towards the wedding. It took a lengthy translation from Kantilal
until I understood
why
the family kept
poking me
!
Hodka was not one of our favorite villages, nothing for sale interested us, but we had to sit
around while driver changed a flat tire. At least the house paintings were beautiful, and the
women colorfully dressed.
