Bidriware or the Birdri craft is one of the most popular handicrafts of Maharashtra. It has been in existence since ages and found patrons amongst the Mughal rulers. Initially used for embellishing royal swords and other weapons, the craft later spread to domestic items like cigars and cigarette boxes. The typical items adorned with bidriware are plates, bowls, vases, ashtrays, trinket boxes, hukka bases, jewelry, glass and studded bangles, etc.
Bidri ware is an ancient craft of Aurangabad, which uses zinc and copper as raw material. It also employs the intricate workmanship of pure silver, either brocaded, overlaid or inlaid on the metal surface. In the beginning, Bidri ware items were used as hookahs or paan daans, but now they are more often sold as souvenirs.