Amrut Bandhej Saree – Timeless Beauty

There's no doubt that India is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, art, and handicrafts. The majority of the art and craft forms are centuries old and still have a following among today's youth. One of the most well-known and commonly utilized tie-and-dye methods in the world of Indian fashion is Bandhani or Bandhej. Intricate artistry and thought go into this brilliant and flamboyant art form, producing in vivid motifs and patterns. Bandhani goods, including sarees, salwar suits, dupattas, stoles, skirts, kurtas, and turbans, have been increasingly popular in recent years. Furthermore, artisans have started experimenting with fusion patterns.

Bandhani has been elegantly combined with weave patterns like Banarasi and has been fused with embroidery or even other block printing techniques such as Ajrakh. They are well-liked not only by ladies but also by men.

The history behind Bandhani

Bandhani is one of the oldest tie-and-dye art traditions, dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization. It comes from the Sanskrit word bandhan, which meaning "binding up." The earliest type of Bandhani dots can be observed on the cave wall at Ajanta in a 6th-century picture depicting Buddha's life. According to historians, the first Bandhani saree was used in the royal marriage of Bana Bhatt's Harshacharit. Wearing a Bandhani saree was thought to bring the bride good fortune in the future. These sarees can be seen on the Ajanta walls.

The Gujarati Khatri community pioneered Bandhani work in India. Bandhani work is prominent in Rajasthan, particularly in Jaipur, Ajmer, Udaipur, Bhilwara, Sikar, and Jamnagar in Gujarat.

The technique behind Bandhani products

Bandhani's beautifully completed goods are the result of a highly skilled procedure. The artists begin by tying the fabric very tightly at various locations with threads to create diverse patterns. The fabric is then colored in various colours when this stage is completed. The beauty of this art form is that the tied knots do not pick up colour when the fabric is dyed. The hue is the same as the fabric. The fabric is aired out for drying in the open after it has been dyed. The time it takes for the material to dry is heavily influenced by the weather. The product dries about 4-5 hours on a bright sunny day, but it could take up to 24 hours during monsoons.

The types of Bandhani patterns-

Bandhani is available in a wide range of symbols and designs. Symbols such as lines, waves, dots, and strips are produced as a result of the processing. Different patterns are generated based on how the fabric is knotted. 

• A single Bandhani dit Ekdali or Bundi
• Boond is a type of little dot with a darker centre.
• Kodi: drop in the shape of a tear
• A cluster of three patterns or circles is known as a trikunit.
• Dungar Shahi is a pattern of mountains.

Waves (Leheriya)
Bandhani dots and patterns are repeated to create intricate designs of flowers, foliage, animals, trees, and human figures.

Fabrics used to make Bandhani items

Fine mill cotton or muslin was used to make Bandhani goods in the past. With the passage of time, these artists began to experiment with different textiles in order to fulfil the changing demands of the people. Georgette, cotton silk, cotton variations, and art silk were among them.

Bandhani's many items and colours

Sarees, salwar suits, dupattas, stoles, and even turbans and shirts for men are all examples of Bandhani items. Natural dyes are used to create these items. Red, yellow, green, blue, black, and maroon are the most often used hues, each with its own meaning.
As an example,
Brides are said to be blessed with a prosperous future and wealth if they wear red. Yellow is the colour of happiness. Mourning is symbolized by the colours black and maroon. Bandhani goods are now available in a variety of colours, including pink, purple, mustard yellow, and beige. The upkeep of Bandhani's products

Sunshade Saree with Bandhani Print and unstitched blouse

Bandhani goods should be dry cleaned and ironed on a low heat setting for the greatest results and longevity. Keep in mind that washing or ironing on high heat is strictly forbidden because the clothing will be destroyed.

Dressed in Bandhani robes 

In terms of wear ability, bandhani outfits are extremely adaptable. They're perfect for casual get-togethers, work, informal gatherings, and celebrations. These are popular among young girls as well as women. The reason for this is because they are the ideal combination of comfort and style. 

Phulari's Collection, to Name a Few

These Bandhani goods are lovingly created by the talented artisans Phulari employs. Each one is unique and a mix of different art styles such as Kutchi, Khatli, and Ajrakh. When you combine any of these with Bandhani, you'll have an enticing outfit that will draw everyone's attention wherever you go. 

Ajrakh Dupatta in Modal Silk Bandhani 

Orange Bandhani Print Banarasi Silk Saree

Elegant and gorgeous, this hot pink modal silk dupatta. It has a lovely Bandhani design throughout, with a thick ajrakh border that adds to the richness and elegance. It's perfect for parties or celebrations. This dupatta looks great with a black or white outfit.

The modal silk Bandhani ajrakh dupatta is shown here with a black kurta and leggings, jhumkas, and brown juttis.

Bandhani Saree in Dupion Silk Banarasi Weave

This vibrant and gorgeous dupion silk saree is great for weddings and festivals. It's a lovely blend of two popular Indian handcrafted styles: Banarasi and Bandhani. It's yellow and pink, giving your outfit a very lively and happy feel. To finish the effect, wear it with oxidized jhumkas.

Bandhani and Georgette Banarasi sarees woven in zari

Kutch artisans created this lovely textured georgette blue-sea green saree. It's made with zari and a tie-and-dye process. Drape it to make a statement at any wedding or party. If you're looking for a saree that's unique, attractive, and refined, this Banarasi-Bandhani saree is a great choice.

Check out This Patterned Khatli Work With A Contrast Bandhani Salwar Suit

These unstitched salwar suit materials are perfect for daily use, small celebrations, and pujas. The top features delicate Khatli embroidery, while the bottom and dupatta feature a Bandhani motif. It's stylish, comfortable, and easy to wear. They are certain to entice both women and young girls. For a complete ethnic look, pair these salwar suits with jewelry and handcrafted juttis.

Salwar Suit with Bandhani and Kutchi Work

Yellow Cotton Silk Badhani Saree With and Unstitched Blouse

This unstitched salwar suit fabric is a mesmerizing blend of violet and green. These two colors add vibrancy and freshness to a drab day. This lovely creation by local artisans has been enhanced by the use of Bandhani and Kutchi. This outfit will make a style statement whether it's for a casual get-together or for business. A set of long earrings and a bindi are all you need to complete your outfit, and you're good to go.

Due to low pay for the amount of effort spent and a long turnover period, this art form has been threatened, resulting in a decrease in the number of artists. There is also a need to cut out the middleman and engage directly with these artists so that they can be fairly compensated.

Bandhani has been around for millennia and isn't going anywhere. Despite the threats that local artisans face, they continue to work on this form of art. In addition, numerous fashion designers are drawing inspiration from this art form and reproducing styles to suit the current generation's preferences. Bandhani items have become increasingly popular, and they now have a global following.