Variety of fabrics bring out exclusivity in every day dressing of an individual. The fabrics not only provide an elegant look but also we must applaud the skill of real weavers who develop the fabric. Traditional fabrics have always contributed globally to highlight the legacy and richness of Indian culture .The softness and comfort with vibrant colors that traditional fabrics of Indian style provide make them most preferred ones .Especially, for the warmer climate zones. Rajasthan has a long history for traditional fabrics with wide heterogeneity in styles. Specifically, the cotton fabrics of the state are popular.
5 Famous traditional fabrics of Rajasthan include:
1.Bandhani
To begin with Bandhani or ‘tie and dye’ tops the list. The small circle-like or square-like design made on Bandhani cloth is made by plucking nails. The tradition was about painting cloth with natural dyes. Traditionally, the creators use colors like red, yellow, green, blue and pink dyes to paint the cloth. In fact, red color is significant as it is the color for a bride’s outfit. Bandhani means ‘bandh’ (which means to tie firmly). Dupattas, turbans and saree with Bandhani fabric adorned with mirror work, laces, gold work provide a regal look.
The pattern with which thread is tied and subsequently plucked decides the type of print on the fabric like Chandrakala, BavanBaug and Sikari. The tie and dye prints have captured the attention of many leading personalities from various parts of the globe.
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2.Leheriya
Leheriya means waves. The pattern formed on this traditional fabric of Rajasthan is like the picturesque waves. Silk as well as cotton is the base for Leheriya pattern. Blue, pink, green, red and violet are popular shades for the Leheriya.
Previously, Leheriya was seen in turbans for the male population. Further, people adapted it for saree fabrics too. Jaipur and Jodhpur are the main cities for buying Leheriya. Leheriya is becoming a popular choice for fashion designers today. People are fond of wearing Leheriya with gota patti borders on auspicious occasions like weddings and worshipping rituals because of the striking patterns amid bright shades.
3.Bagru
The 100 year old tradition is practiced by Chhipas community or Khatri Muslims. The village of the community is situated on Jaipur-Ajmer road. The weavers prefer light colored fabric for the background. Wood is used to carve out a wooden block. The wooden block is dipped into vegetable dyes and natural dyes. The weavers majorly use Indigo above all other dyes. Block printing is still an age-old tradition of our country. Basically, major techniques of Bagru printing are resist style and direct style. Flora and faunas are inspirational motifs for the designing aspects. Markedly, it is unique because it is eco-friendly fabric. The choice of the Bagru print is for designing the printed skirts, dress materials and dupattas(scarves).
4.Kota Doria Sarees
There is an interesting supporting the name of these sarees. ‘Kota‘ is a famous town in Rajasthan. Currently famous for coaching engineering students. Previously, it was a town of artisans. Mughal general Rao Kishore Singh shifted certain weavers to Kota. As a result, the weaving of Kota Doria Sarees began in Rajasthan. The sarees are available in pastel as well as bright colors made with finely spun threads. Especially Kota Doria of silk with golden-silver zari borders are globally popular. The weavers use onion juice and rice mush to bring out the uniqueness in the fabric. Jodhpur, Kota, Bikaner are the main cities to find these fabrics.
5.Sanganeri Print
Sanganeri Print is another block printing technique. Also, the 500 year old block printing technique originated in Sanganer, near Jaipur. Tribal themes inspire the printing motifs. Additionally, flowers, leaves, birds, geometric designs and religious symbols dominate the pattern of designing. Furthermore, modern designs like abstract patterns or zigzag patterns are popular as well. One can find Sanganeri motifs on kurtis, shirts, scarves, dress materials, bed sheets, pillow covers and tablecloth. Metal and wood both blocks are used under recent trends. Above all, Sabyasachi, the ethnic designer of India, had recently launched a clothing collection highlighting Sanganeri prints.
To sum up:
The traditional fabrics of Rajasthan will remind you of the flamboyant colors with a blend of patterns and intricacy. The demand for the fabrics never fades. For this purpose, you can search the availability of these fabrics easily on E-commerce websites, distinct shopping portals or social media pages. Additionally, if you are waiting to wear something new and experiment with fashion styling undoubtedly the fabrics would be a worthy choice. Also, the purchases made by you will also aid the respective fabric making community to satisfy their survival needs.
Do you know? –What Kind of Art Therapies Enhance Good Mood?
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