Bagru is a small village located around 30 km from Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan. It is famous for its unique block printing techniques that have been practiced for centuries. In this blog, we will explore the history, techniques, and significance of block printing in Bagru.
Block printing is a technique of printing patterns onto fabric using carved wooden blocks. The process involves creating a design on a wooden block, inking it with dye or pigment, and then pressing it onto the fabric. The process is repeated with different blocks, colors, and patterns until the desired design is achieved.
The history of block printing in Bagru dates back to the 17th century, when the Chhipa community migrated to the village from nearby Sanganer. The Chhipa community were traditionally dyers and printers, and they brought their skills and techniques to Bagru. Over time, the technique evolved and became an integral part of Bagru’s textile culture. Block printing was originally used to decorate religious and ceremonial textiles, such as temple cloths and wedding saris. Later, it became popular for everyday clothing, such as cotton kurtas and sarongs.
Block printing in Bagru is renowned for its unique style and techniques. The prints created in Bagru are predominantly in natural colors like red, blue, black, and white. The designs are often inspired by nature, such as flowers, birds, and animals. Other popular motifs include geometric shapes, paisleys, and mandalas. The colors used in block printing are derived from natural sources, such as plants, minerals, and insects. Indigo, madder root, and turmeric are some of the most commonly used dyes.
The process of block printing in Bagru 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. Some printers use a technique called resist printing, where a resist paste is applied to the fabric before dyeing. This creates a pattern that resists the dye and creates a white design on a colored background.
The unique style of block printing in Bagru is attributed to the use of natural colors and the technique of ‘dabu’ printing. 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 Bagru 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 Bagru’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 Bagru, 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.
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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