This document provides a history of the development of Indian handicrafts from ancient civilizations to the medieval period. It details how handicraft traditions evolved under different empires and regional influences, focusing on the crafts of pottery, weaving, sculpture, metalworking and jewelry. Key developments include the rich craft tradition of the Indus Valley civilization, references to crafts in ancient texts like the Vedas, influences from neighboring cultures integrated into crafts over time, and the patronage of crafts under royal dynasties like the Mauryans, Guptas and regional empires.