Exports are now 17 percent higher than they were right before the COVID outbreak began. As many economies recover from the pandemic, some are discovering new drivers, and India is one of them. Two new drivers have emerged, one of which is the tremendous growth of exports. Exports are now 17 percent higher than they were on the eve of the pandemic. Infact, they had risen 36 percent quarter-on-quarter in 2021. Trade has become a significant aspect of a country's economy due to limited and concentrated resources around the world.
The quick evolution and growth in what people need and desire have a huge impact on the requirement for importing and exporting commodities. On the other hand, trade provides employment and raises standards of living. The other aspect is the entire ecosystem that surrounds the new-age startups that we are seeing in the economy. There are geopolitical shifts taking place, and a lot of money is flowing into India. We're witnessing an increase in the number of startups, and there's a good mix of supply and demand in this space.
Significantly, one of the fastest-growing manufacturers and exporters of stunning marble handicrafts is AGASTRA International. AGASTRA International was established amid the COVID-era with the motive of creating elegant and trendsetting designs of Marble Handicrafts for International Market on one hand and keeping alive the ancient marble inlay (Pachikari) art of Mughal era on the other. The affiliation seed of AGASTRA International was sown when Mohan visited Agra and met marble artisans.
These people were having a hard time owing to the COVID-19, as they were heavily reliant on tourists. He wanted to generate employment during the difficult times of pandemic and export products created by these artisans. Hence, AGASTRA International was established with the vision of bridging the gap between the local talented artisans and the potential overseas buyers.
The name AGASTRA was derived from the words, taking the initials of Artology (Kalashastra), Gemology (Ratan Shastra), Astrology (Jyoti Shastra), and the Science of dwelling/Architecture (Vaastu Shastra) by considering art, stone, zodiac sign, home directional position, and planet connection with a gemstone for the flow of positive energy, wellbeing, health, wealth, happiness, and prosperity in one’s life.
The logo of AGASTRA International comprise of a gemstone in between surrounded by Saturn rings
which according to Vedic astrology symbolizes the God of Karma or Justice. AGASTRA International strives to create trending and fashionable masterpieces of Marble Handicrafts which can uplift the decor and furnishing of people’s home keeping in mind the durability factor. Hence its tagline is-'We create art that is for generations, not just for years'.
The Art Of Exquisite Beauty
AGASTRA International lays its expertise in Marble Fusion art and Semi-precious stone jewellery. The company is a complete trendsetter in Marble and Wood fusion Handicrafts, Marble and Metal fusion Handicrafts and Semi-Precious Stone Jewelry. Besides, the firm also creates customized astonishing masterpieces as per the specification of the clients. The fusion art is the art of delicately inlaying or joining the wood or metal pieces into the intricate designs carved into marble. In this art various good quality wood like Teakwood, Oakwood, Rosewood and Mahogany wood is used and for metal: silver, brass, stainless steel and copper is used depending upon the product and its uses.
On the other hand, talking about the inlay art, this is the art of delicately inlaying precious or semiprecious gemstones into intricate designs carved into marble. In this art, semi-precious stones such as lapis lazuli, malachite, turquoise, jasper, carnelian, and more are cut into thin slices and then are neatly bedded in sockets prepared in the marble. The Taj Mahal in Agra is the most famous example of ‘Pachikari’ art, with its stunning floral designs that won't allow you to look away.
Adarsh K Bhagor, Co Founder– Prod. & Supply Manager
AGASTRAs product portfolio caters to the need of home decor/utility, flooring & panel, jewellery, sculpture, temple & fountain construction. The firm is equipped with a proficient design team, who visits and draws design inspiration from various Indian and International landmarks. Thereafter, a dedicated team of talented artisans creates beautiful exquisite art pieces in collaboration with the design team. And finally, the production team handles the entire manufacturing process. AGASTRA International pays a premium on quality finished work and offers its product on its online marketplace, B2C e-Commerce platform as well as B2B channels at the most competitive prices.
Currently, AGASTRA International is working on infusing new product range like epoxy and resin work (blend of epoxy with wood) which is a current furniture trend in the international market.
AGASTRA International was established with the vision of bridging the gap between talented artisans and potential overseas buyers
The company is also exploring opportunities for a new department for manufacturing precious stone jewellery with Diamond, Pearl, Emerald and Sapphire by registering itself with Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) since it believes in staying aligned with the current trends and market, at the same time preserving the age-old art as well. Since its inception, AGASTRA International has grown multifold and carved a niche for itself in the market. And, as it forges ahead, the firm is looking to set up a showroom to showcase the beauty of Marble art, targeting especially at the tourist, and exporting these arts to different parts of the world.
