A Guide to Bandhani Prints and Their Rich Heritage
Fashion is a significant industry that constantly introduces new styles and ways to use fabrics. However, there are timeless traditional techniques that have been making clothes look gorgeous for a very long time. One such ancient method is called Bandhani. Bandhani is a unique approach to tying and coloring fabric, practiced in areas like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and specific parts of Punjab and UP.
In this blog we will explore more about this rich heritage craft and learn what makes it so special?
Where Does the word Bandhani Come from?
Bandhani is derived from the word ‘Bandha’ which means tying. Followed from the centuries, this craft of tying and dying has retained its immense popularity till date. It has time and again revamped and re-introduced itself according to the changing times. Now again, it has seen a comeback into our contemporary closets.
A Special Journey of bandhani Colors and our Culture
Indian women proudly and lovingly wear Bandhej. The unique printing methods are handed down through many generations as precious family heirlooms. This is a craft that has stood the test of time, which makes it even more extraordinary. Bandhej prints are adorned with designs like parrots, peacocks, dancing figures, flowers, and more.
Bandhej holds cultural importance, particularly in the northwest of India. It's a crucial part of a woman's ethnic trousseau. Bandhej suits and dupattas are commonly worn during wedding ceremonies. A bandhani chunnari carries special meaning in weddings in Rajasthan and Gujarat. Moreover, red bandhani sarees are thought to bring good luck to brides-to-be. They're also given as gifts to new mothers and worn during celebrations in the Gujarat and Jain communities.
The Art and Process Behind Vibrant Tie and Dye Fabrics
Creating Bandhani dresses is a fascinating process that involves many people, performing various tasks. From purchasing to bleaching, adding designs, tying, dyeing, and selling, a lot of hard work goes into it. The cloth used is mostly grey, so it needs to be turned white through bleaching. The designs are applied using a non-permanent chemical, often featuring small dots and shapes. Then comes the tying step, which can vary based on dot size and design.
Different Bandhej techniques have names like Barik Bandhej, Rai Bandhej, and Khas-khas Bandhej. Skilled artisans tie the fabric in specific ways. After tying, the cloth is dyed. It's first bleached, then dyed according to the chosen design. In the past, natural dyes like vegetable dyes and tea leaves were used, but today, chemical-based dyes are more common. Colors like green, blue, yellow, red, and black are popular for bandhej unstitched suits and sarees. The cloth is then dried in the air, and unique patterns like Chandrakala are created on it.
Bandhani's Bollywood Influence
Bandhani suits and sarees bring a joyful and easygoing style. These vibrant, colorful patterns on cotton and other materials can be worn in many different ways. Bandhani has become popular again, and even famous people are wearing it for special occasions. A new wave of bandhani designs and better methods is coming up. Both skilled craftspeople and fashion designers are making this old art form more modern and appealing.
Bollywood's elite showcase the beauty of bandhani. Stars like Alia Bhatt and Kareena Kapoor have embraced and perfected the art of wearing Bandhej. Alia Bhatt stunned in a purple Sabyasachi bandhani lehenga that remains memorable. The timeless combination of a deep V-neck blouse, a voluminous skirt, and a matching dupatta continues to be a sensation.
Embrace the grace of bandhani suits and sarees and create your own styles that reflects both tradition and modern allure. Let this rich heritage be your fashion canvas. Check out LavanyaIndia's authentic unstitched suits in bandhej and customize them according to your preferences.