In the lanes of Bhadohi, a town celebrated for its centuries-old weaving tradition, a group of artisans has achieved something truly extraordinary. Hands Carpets, under the guidance of its parent company Patodia Contract, has entered the Guinness World Records for creating the largest hand-tufted carpet ever made, with the prestigious certificate of recognition awarded to Patodia Contract. Spanning an astonishing 12,464.29 square metres, this creation now lies within the Astana Grand Mosque in Kazakhstan, the largest mosque in Central Asia, where it stands as a symbol of devotion, design, and the power of craftsmanship.
Journey from Bhadohi to Astana
In the summer of 2021, more than a thousand skilled craftsmen came together in Bhadohi, transforming wool and yarn into a work of art. Amidst the challenges of the pandemic, their unwavering focus and artistry brought to life a carpet of breath-taking scale and beauty. Six months of meticulous creation culminated in a 50-day installation process at the mosque.
At its heart lies a medallion with a diameter of 70 metres, forming the spiritual and visual centre of the design. Radiating outward along eight symmetrical axes, the pattern draws inspiration from the mosque’s gardens. The result is a masterpiece that mirrors the architecture of the mosque, turning the floor into a vast expanse of geometry.
Craftsmanship & Precision Went Hand-in-Hand
Behind this grand achievement lies an extraordinary confluence of artistry and engineering. Patodia Contract’s vertically integrated production ensured control over every step, from in-house dyeing of yarns to on-site installation. Their Planning and Estimation teams worked in constant co-ordination, ensuring every contour aligned seamlessly with the mosque’s intricate details, including chandeliers, walls, pillars, and marble flooring.
Each phase of the project stands as a testament of how Indian craftsmanship continues to evolve, honouring its heritage while embracing precision-led innovation.
The roots of Hands Carpets trace back to 1881, when it was founded by A. Tellery in Bhadohi and later passed into the hands of the Patodia family. Today, under its second generation, the brand remains synonymous with refinement and excellence. From royal palaces and luxury hotels to bespoke residences across the world, its creations find a home at some of the most prestigious addresses.
With the Astana Grand Mosque project, Hands Carpets has once again reaffirmed India’s place at the heart of global luxury craftsmanship. It is not just a world record but a story of patience, precision, and pride, woven quite literally into history.
