BANDHANI CRAFT
There are several skilled arts and handicrafts that are manifested on Indian textiles. These not only enhance the look and feel of the clothes but at the same time, exemplify the artistry and talent of the designer artisan. One such craft is Bandhani or Bandhej, the art of tie and dye method that is most prevalent in Western India (Gujarat).
The earliest evidence of bandhini can be traced back to the Indus Valley civilisation. It can also be seen in the paintings at Ajanta Caves (dating back to 1st and 2nd centuries BC), and are mentioned as a part of the royal marriage in Bānabhatta’s Harshacharita back in 7th century AD too.
This art form requires skill and precision. The fabric is tied with fingernails into very tight knots. However, the knots are not just randomly made but cater to specific designs or patterns, such as Chandrokhani, Shikari, Ambadal, Ras Mandal, Bavan Bhat and more. The uniformity of the dots, their size, shapes and spacing, as well as the contours of the dots are indication of the mastery of the artist. Fine dots (Rai Bandhej) and high precision makes a bandhini creation much more valuable. The designs are also understood according to the number and type of knots. For example, a single knot is called ekdali, trikunti for three knots, chaubandi for four knots or dungar shahi for a mountain pattern, boond when there is a small knot and a dark center or kodi which is a tear shaped knot.
In many rural areas of Gujarat and Rajasthan bandhani or bandhej craft is a way of life. It is associated with the culture of the land and the social practices of its people and craftsmen. For example, a Gharchola saree with zari or golden borders is given by the man to his bride. The brides of the Khatri community wear the Chandrokhani which is believed to be a parallel between the beauty of the bride and the moon. The Bavan Bhat and Rasamandal is a celebration of natures floral gardens and dance forms, formed on bright red backgrounds with designs about peacocks, elephants and women dancing during Navratri.
The essence of ethnicity mingled with what one would call a ‘desi’ touch, bandhani saree or bandhej dupattas are stylish, bold and make a strong statement of skill and creativity.
We are proud to be associated with the finest bandhej artisans and happy to promote their work as they toil their way to creating exemplary rai bandhej work . If you really love unique bandhej and appreciate fine craftmanship attached to its traditional roots , make bandhej textile a part of your style quotient today.
#bandhani #bandhej #bandhanidupatta #bandhejdupatta #bandhanisaree #bandhejsharee
