Which city is called the Brass City of India?

From elegant figurines and vintage décor pieces to traditional utensils and even stylish water bottles, brass has been a part of Indian homes for centuries.

Brass, an alloy made from copper and zinc, is valued for more than just its golden shine. Some swear by its spiritual significance, while others love it for its durability and ability to preserve nutrition.

Whatever the reason, brass continues to hold a timeless charm in Indian culture. But have you ever wondered which city is known as the brass capital of India?

The answer is Moradabad, a city in Uttar Pradesh that proudly carries the title of Peetal Nagri or the 'Brass City of India.' Situated along the banks of the Ram Ganga River, Moradabad is where metal transforms into art.

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Founded in 1600 by Murad, the son of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, Moradabad slowly evolved from a historic town into one of India’s biggest hubs for brass handicrafts and exports.

How Moradabad became famous for brassware

Although brass-making has ancient roots in India, Moradabad’s rise as a brass manufacturing centre began during the Mughal period in the late 17th century.

Early artisans mainly made utensils and coins, but the craft evolved with the influence of Persian, Turkish, and Egyptian artistic styles brought by traders and royal courtiers.

These influences introduced decorative engraving and ornamental designs that turned everyday brass items into artistic masterpieces.

During Shah Jahan’s rule, Moradabad’s brass products reached markets in Iran, Turkey, and the Middle East.

In the 19th century, the British further expanded the city’s brass trade by introducing Moradabad handicrafts to European and international buyers.

Skilled craftsmen from Banaras, Lucknow, Agra and nearby regions later settled in the city, strengthening its brass industry.

What makes Moradabad's brass handicrafts unique

Moradabad is globally recognised for its finely crafted brassware, including decorative items, utensils, lamps, jewellery, idols, and trophies. The city’s artisans are known for their deep understanding of metalwork, with skills passed down through generations.

One major factor behind the quality of Moradabad brassware is the use of fine sand from the Ram Ganga River during the casting process. This helps create smooth textures and detailed finishing.

Artisans use a unique method known as the “Dhalliya” process to create intricate brass designs admired around the world.

Moradabad’s role in India’s export economy

Moradabad is one of the country’s biggest handicraft export centres. According to All India Artisans and Craftworkers Welfare Association, the city contributes nearly 40 percent of India’s total brass handicraft exports.

Most brass manufacturing in Moradabad happens in small home-based workshops, where traditional skills are preserved and passed from one generation to another.

GI tag gave global recognition to Moradabad brass craft

In 2013, Moradabad Metal Craft received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the Government of India. The recognition highlighted the city’s unique craftsmanship and traditional production methods.

Moradabad has also emerged as an important industrial city in northern India. The Uttar Pradesh International Trade show organised by the Government of Uttar Pradesh also draws several customers from India and beyond to expansive variety of brass products made in Moradabad.

Even though global conflicts and changing market conditions have affected exports at times, the city continues to remain a key centre for brass handicrafts and metal exports.

From traditional household workshops to international export houses, brasswork continues to define Moradabad’s identity and keeps its rich craft heritage alive across global markets.