The story
Patharkatti village near Gaya was settled by stone carvers from Rajasthan, invited in the 18th century to work on temples. They carve the local blue-black granite into idols and sculptures sold to pilgrims at Gaya and Bodh Gaya. Gaya Pattharkatti Stone craft is GI-registered.
In numbers
The Patharkatti cluster in Gaya sustains around 650 artisans across 500 families; the craft has been practised for over 300 years and earned a GI tag in 2025.
GST Rate Rationalisation: Expanding Opportunities for Bihar (PIB factsheet) · 2025
GI tag
- Gaya Pattharkatti StoneApplication no. Application No. 891Registration details of Geographical Indications (state-wise register), IP India
Ways in for a newcomer
- Sell idols and Buddhist sculptures to Bodh Gaya visitors and online
- Commissioned temple and garden sculptures
- Power tools and design training for carvers
Problems the cluster faces
- Dust and health risks for carvers
- Stone quarry restrictions
- Heavy freight costs
Businesses to start here
Stone Polishing Unit →Gaura Stone Handicraft →Online Folk Art and Art Gallery Marketplace →