History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c37.s1.t3.4

v1.c37.s1.t3.4

The footwear worn by Kannappa Nayanar of 10th century A.D. exhibited in the Tanjore Art Gallery appears to have been made of leather. Some miniatures also show the practice of wearing footwear by the ancient Indian rulers. The disciple Raidas, a shoe maker, used to present to all wandering ascetics new shoes. Shoes were offered not only to sadhus but also to gods. Different patterns of Farmers’ shoe like the shepherd shoe, Okhai shoe etc. are available throughout Saurashtra and Kutch regions. Made by the native artisans, these are primarily used by the peasants and other village folks and normally not worn by the educated class of people. Made from the vegetable tanned leather, some varieties are usually heavy and sturdy; some are extremely light and soft. The leather soles and heels are made with several layers and laced with leather thongs tucked with horse shoes and other iron pieces and nails, the sole and heels are noticeably strong to withstand wear and tear. Some variety is plain and simple, but some are heavily adorned with eyelets, tinsels, coloured threads.