Ajmer, located in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, is a city with a rich cultural heritage. It is known for its beautiful lakes, historical monuments, and vibrant markets. One of the most prominent cultural traditions of Ajmer is block printing, which is an ancient technique of printing designs onto fabric using carved wooden blocks.
The history of block printing in Ajmer can be traced back to the 12th century when the city was founded by Ajayraj Singh Chauhan. The city was an important center of trade and commerce, and block printing played a crucial role in its economy. Over time, the art of block printing in Ajmer evolved and became an integral part of the city’s cultural heritage.
Block printing in Ajmer is characterized by its intricate designs and vibrant colors. The prints created in Ajmer are often inspired by the city’s rich history and culture. For example, designs may feature traditional Rajasthani motifs such as peacocks, flowers, and geometric shapes.
The process of block printing in Ajmer is labor-intensive and requires skilled artisans. The artisans who practice this art are known as chhipa printers. They begin by preparing the fabric, which is usually made of cotton or silk. The fabric is washed and treated with a mixture of clay and resin, which helps to fix the dye and prevent bleeding. The fabric is then dyed in a base color and left to dry.
Once the fabric is dry, the printer creates a design on a wooden block. The design is carved by hand using chisels and knives. The block is then inked with dye or pigment and pressed onto the fabric. The process is repeated with different blocks and colors until the design is complete.
One unique feature of block printing in Ajmer is the use of natural colors, which are derived from plants, minerals, and insects. These natural colors are vibrant and long-lasting, and they give Ajmer’s block-printed textiles a unique character and charm. Indigo, madder root, and turmeric are some of the most commonly used natural dyes.
Another distinctive feature of block printing in Ajmer is the use of the “dabu” technique. Dabu printing involves creating a resist pattern on the fabric using a mixture of mud, gum, and lime. The resist pattern prevents the dye from penetrating the fabric, creating a white design on a colored background. Once the fabric is dyed and dried, the resist paste is washed off, revealing the white pattern. Dabu printing is a time-consuming and intricate process that requires a high level of skill.
Block printing in Ajmer is more than just a textile tradition; it is also an important cultural heritage. The art form has been passed down through generations of artisans and is deeply rooted in the region’s history and identity. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of Ajmer’s block-printed textiles are a testament to the skill and creativity of its artisans.
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in block printing in Ajmer, both in India and around the world. This has led to the establishment of several small-scale businesses that employ local artisans and promote sustainable practices. Many of these businesses use natural dyes and organic cotton, and they are committed to preserving the traditional techniques of block printing.
Block printing in Ajmer has also gained recognition on the national and international stage. In 2015, the Government of India designated Ajmer as a “Craft City” under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. This recognition has helped to promote the art of block printing in Ajmer and raise awareness about the city’s cultural heritage.
Want to learn more? Join Lila Travel India’s Textile Tour of Rajasthan to get a rich insight into the traditional art of Block Printing.
Culture Culinary Craft Tour of Rajasthan India – Experience India’s textile heritage on immersive tours by Lila Travel India – Led by Delhi Native based in Seattle USA – https://lilatravelindia.com/culture-culinary-textile-tour-of-rajasthan/
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