Bandhani Work - Kutch, Gujarat
Bandhani is one of the oldest forms of textile designs present in India. It is one of the forms of tie and dye sequence on the fabrics. Tie and dye are of different types and techniques to create designs and patterns. There are several forms of tie and dye practiced in India where Bandhani is one of the popular ones. It is one of the traditional craft which is followed most by the Muslim Khatri communities and Jadejas, Lohanas, Bohras and other communities who follow this craft. There are designs rooted to their customs, celebrations and religions like chandrokhani gaji a wedding scarf wear for the bride, made by her mother in law. It is said that people were categorized and identified through the designs of bandhani fabric. It is believed that this craft exists from a very long time say about from 6th century.
Bandhani is mainly produced in two states of India one is Rajasthan other one is Gujarat. All the artisan of the bandhani are mostly immigrants form Sindh before Independence. Silk, cotton, woolen fabrics are mainly used in this craft.
Khatri Abdul Satar Bapu from Bhuj city is one of the famous Bandhani craftsmen who works along with his wife and sons. He is from the traditional bandhani making family and is successful in following his ancestor’s craft. Businessmen from Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and few other states have approached the artisans for their quality work. Artisan work with the requirements of the customer directly. He takes part in many exhibitions and have direct contact with the customers. They work on silk, Banaras saree, and other materials.Red, yellow, green and blue are the traditional colors particularly used for bandhani. Saree, dupatta, stole, dress material and variety of products are produced in bandhani style. Big designers and art directors have worked with them for the costume designs for the movies, one of them is ‘Ramleela’.
