Kalamkari Work - Srikalahasti
In earlier times where, folk singers used to travel from one village to another narrating stories of Ramayana, Mahabharata to the village people. In course of time narrating stories slowly transformed into painting, giving way to a new art form called Kalamkari. This ancient style of hand painting on textiles using a kalamkari pen is primarily done in Srikalahasti and has come a long way. Different motifs like flowers, peacock, and paisleys were usually done on kalamkari sarees. Basic inspiration was from historical architecture, forts and temples. Presently wall panels, dupatta (stole), sarees and wall hangings are made. Kalamkari artists have absolute freedom for individual expression while painting, no two products are the same unless it is customer’s request. One of a kind qualities of kalamkari painting is all about the vibrant colours used and no shading is done. Intricate detailing is given to each product. Different stories and scenes of Hindu mythology are revealed as a series in dupattas and sarees. Kalamkari can be done on any material unlike olden days where only cotton was used. Silk, Tussar, Chiffon, georgette are some of the different materials where kalamkari painting can be done. Running designs are currently popular in Srikalahasti as people ask for new varieties in products so kalamkari artists have evolved from time to meet the customer’s demands. However Kalamkari has been present for many generations and the ancient technique of vegetable dyes are used, the craft totally depends upon natural vegetable dyes and nearby riverbanks. Kalamkari is a labour intensive work as a simple patterned saree can take up to 20 days to complete and is washed 4 different times. Weather conditions matters a lot in kalamkari as rain water can ruin the outlines in the fabric where as high temperatures can make the colours spread. Starting price range of cotton sarees is ₹2700 and chanderi where the material is lighter, which costs ₹3500 to 4000.
