Kadai Fire Bowls

Our Kadai Fire Bowls are all genuine antiques, ranging from 50 to 150 years old. Each one has been hand-forged in India by the Gaduliya Lohars—a nomadic community of metalworkers from Rajasthan and Gujarat, whose craft traditions trace back to the 16th century.

Craftsmanship & Heritage

The name Lohar means “smith,” while Gaduliya refers to the distinctive ox carts that carried these itinerant artisans between desert villages. Once favoured by Rajput rulers for their blacksmithing skill in weapon-making, the Lohars later turned their mastery to creating robust iron vessels and tools for everyday use. Each Kadai is constructed from thick iron plates, either riveted or hammer-welded into a patchwork form that gives every bowl its unique character and patina.

From Utility to Sculpture

Originally used as cauldrons for large-scale cooking during weddings and festivals, Kadais were heated over open fires, tended by entire kitchen teams to prepare food for hundreds. Today, these same vessels have found new life as sculptural fire bowls and planters, used in Rajasthani palace gardens and courtyards for warmth and light during cool winter evenings.

Modern Use & Styling

Perfect for outdoor entertaining, a Kadai can be used year-round as a garden brazier or adapted for grilling at gatherings of family and friends. When not in use, they make striking planters—ideal for bright annuals, succulents, or cascading greenery. Each piece tells its own story of use, age, and enduring craftsmanship.

Pair a Kadai with cast iron garden benches or stone planters to create a layered outdoor space that combines texture, history, and warmth.