Indian leather tanning has a history
dating back to 3000 BC. Tanning in the rural areas

is done by indigenous methods, making the use of this material easier.
No village can exist without a cobbler.
The most popular leather products in India are footwear and hand bags.
The footwear comes in a variety of traditional embroidery, brocade or
textile designs. Bright colors and individual designs are used. The all
time favourite,

kholapuri chappals of Maharashtra, are soft and comfortable to wear.
A particular type of thickish shoes, called mojadis are made in
Rajasthan. They are decorated with silk, metal embroidery and beads.
Jaipur has the

most
fancy and sophisticated footwear. Jodhpur, on the other hand, has good
embroidery in potent patterns and bold shades. 'Kopi', a rather unusual
and attractive object, is a water bottle made in Bikaner from camel
hide. Bikaner and Jaisalmer have decorative saddles for horses and
camels.
Handbags in batik style with the cracks, bold
curves, and traditional motifs are made in Bengal. The high raised
leather seats with geometrical patterns or motifs, called pidis, are
immensely popular. Leather items of Kashmir are outstanding, as they are
very

ornamental.
The red leather embroidered with gold and silk is unique in Madhya
Pradesh. In Hoshiarpur, Punjab, applique work is done with colored
leather pieces. Leather with metallic gold or silvery finish is done in
Karnataka. Fascinating articles are also made out of crocodile and
snakeskins, such as wallets, pouches, handbags, and especially a wide
range of belts.