Jaipur, July 5: Renowned jewellery designer and master craftsman Dharmendra Bhalla was felicitated with the prestigious Jewellery Eminence Award by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma at the ongoing jewellery show JAS-25 at JECC, Sitapura on Saturday. The award recognises Bhalla’s exceptional contribution to the world of luxury jewellery and his relentless pursuit of innovation in design.
A 43-year-old artisan, Bhalla has carved a distinct identity for himself in the jewellery fraternity, blending tradition with innovation to produce pieces that, according to him, even master craftsmen cannot replicate. “My methods are entirely my own innovation. Every piece is unique and carries my signature style,” Bhalla said with quiet confidence.
It is to be mentioned that more than 600 entries were received across the country for Jewellery Eminence Awards for 15 categories and Bhalla is one among the 15 to get this award, which is really a great achievement.
Bhalla is considered an expert in the traditional art of kundan jadau, where pure gold is intricately interwoven with embedded gemstones — a centuries-old technique synonymous with Rajasthan’s rich jewellery heritage. However, what sets Bhalla apart is his innovative approach, which he calls ‘Open Kundan Jadai’, a process that, he claims, is unknown even to veterans in the field.
Another creation that has turned heads in the luxury jewellery space is his ‘Metal-less Setting’ necklace, crafted from white gold and adorned with diamonds and emeralds. The design is such that the metal remains invisible, creating an illusion of floating gemstones.
Despite his towering reputation, Bhalla believes in sharing his knowledge and mentoring the next generation of artisans. In an industry where many master craftsmen are reluctant to pass on their secrets, fearing competition, Bhalla takes a different approach. “Each person’s work will always be unique,” he believes. “No one can truly replicate another’s creativity because everyone has their own talent and style.”
Bhalla has trained over a dozen young artisans in the intricate art of kundan jadau. Many well-established jewellers send their children to him for hands-on learning, and even students from design institutes like NIFT have sought his guidance. Although he does not run a formal school, his workshop has become a hub for those eager to learn the nuances of this traditional craft.
As Bhalla continues to explore new frontiers in design, he remains focused on creating bespoke, high-end jewellery for an elite global clientele. “The demand for innovative luxury jewellery is growing rapidly in both domestic and international markets. My goal is to satiate the thirst of celebrities and the elite with one-of-a-kind, customised jewellery,” he said.
With his latest recognition at JAS-25, Bhalla’s reputation as a master craftsman and innovator in the luxury jewellery sector has only been further cemented. His work, which seamlessly blends tradition with modern ingenuity, continues to raise the bar for artisans across the country and beyond.
