Bandhani is not just a handcrafted textile, but it also holds cultural and symbolic meanings. The bandhani sarees have their origin in the regions of Gujarat and Rajasthan. Today, they appeal to young women, modern women, and a global audience who preserve the essence of the craft. Bandhani sarees are a tradition of storytelling passed down through generations. Colorful dots, florals, buttis, leheriya, and waves define the tie-dye pattern of bandhani and look very vibrant on the sarees. Let’s delve deeper into the captivating palette of bandhani sarees, which is a masterpiece of Indian textiles.
History & Evolution
These textiles have their roots in the Indus Valley Civilization, and this hints at their early presence and existence. Evidence of the bandhani tie-dye has been found in the Ajanta Caves during the 6th and 7th centuries. It is also said that the craft first originated in Gujarat and Rajasthan among the Khatris, the community that has passed the skill through generations.
What is Bandhani print?
The name is derived from the word ‘bandh’, which means to tie. In this technique, small sections of fabric are tied with threads and then dipped in dye baths of different colors. The knots prevent the dye from reaching the tied fabric. When the cloth or fabric is opened after the dye, the tied part creates a complex and unique design by itself. Overall, the process involves marking the dots on fabrics where the fabric must be tied. Elastic bands or threads are then used to tie those parts. For intricate designs, re-tying is done in some cases. After the dyeing of a bandhej saree, the fabric is washed and dried. Unknotting is the final step in the bandhani-making process. The entire process is labor-intensive and traditional.
Preserving The Tradition
The century-old tie-dye craft is still loved and embraced by young, middle-aged, and even older women. The bandhani print sarees are a testament to rich history, culture, tradition, and royalty. These sarees are worn during weddings, festivals, and Indian rituals. The vibrant red, green, yellow, and orange bandhani sarees are symbolic of auspiciousness and blissfulness for married women. Modern women opt for these lovely sarees to embody the richness of Indian textile heritage.
The Global Appeal
In recent times, the technique has evolved, which combines traditional artistry with contemporary mood, style, and desires. The designers, artisans, and experts are innovating the designs and have come up with unique and modern bandhej saree designs. With designer blouses, ready-to-wear saree designs, etc, the bandhani has transitioned into the modern world. The contemporary pieces appeal to a global audience. The heavy and traditional bandhani sarees feature modern design innovations that include contemporary motifs, fusion patterns, and experimental colors apart from red, green, and yellow. Bandhani sarees with modern blouses, accessories, and jewels offer a fresh and trendy look. Bollywood has also gone a long way in introducing these heritage pieces to the global audience. Bollywood divas make a case for bandhani Indian wear.
Different Types oF Bandhani Sarees Based on Motifs & Patterns
Each motif in Bandhani carries its own charm, from stripes and dots to swirls and grids. These unique patterns add depth, culture, and individuality to every saree.
- Leheriya Bandhani- These are diagonal stripe patterns on the traditional bandhani sarees.
- Gharchola Bandhani- They are popular Marwari or Rajasthani bandhani sarees that feature grid-like pattern.
- Shikari Bandhani- These sarees are about nature-inspired motifs like veins (lata). Trees, flowers, etc. Shikari means hunter in Hindi, and these sarees justify the nature and the wildlife themes.
- Ekdali Bandhani- These are minimalistic sarees that feature single dots on the saree. They are either in linear or circular form on the saree. These are perfect to showcase a modern and minimalistic look for casual outings.
- Khombi Bandhani- In this, a bandhani saree is adorned with white tie-dye spots on a basic red, maroon, or dark background.
- Mothra Bandhani- These sarees feature traditional plaid or box-like patterns.
- Trikunti Bandhani- These bandhej sarees feature a cluster of three dots in a circle or in a row.
- Laddu Jalebi Bandhani- These are swirling patterns and a very famous art of bandhani.
Ajrakh, block, batic, madhubani, butti, and kalamkari are other prints and designs that bandhani sarees feature.
Different Bandhani Saree Designs Based On Fabric
The fabric plays a key role in Bandhani sarees, shaping their look and feel. Cotton, silk, georgette, and chiffon each bring out the art in a different way.
- Cotton Bandhani- In these sarees, natural cotton fabric is used to reflect the bandhani technique and art. Tie-dye creates unique and charming patterns on a cotton base bandhani saree. Cotton bandhani sarees are perfect to express your traditional and simple personality.
- Silk Bandhani- These sarees are crafted from high-quality silk fabric and feature smooth texture, luxurious look, and smooth feel. Eye-catching red, blue, green, and pink silk bandhani sarees are perfect for weddings and celebrations.
- Georgette Bandhani- One can keep up with the latest trends with georgette bandhani sarees. Modern fabric exudes elegance, class, and ethnicity.
- Chiffon Bandhani- They are extremely lightweight sarees, easy to drape, and look vibrant at festivals and family gatherings. These sarees are ideal for warm weather.
Styling A Bandhani Saree
There is immense versatility in styling a bandhani saree. While you celebrate heritage in every drape, fold, and pleat, you can add style and fashion quotient too.
- Unconventional Colors- True, the ethnic colors bring auspiciousness and harmony, but color can be your eye-catching detail. Go for pastels, bright hues, fusion, and ombre in bandhani saree designs and highlight your vibrant mood and personality.
- Accessories- Look for fashionable accessories to modernize the look of bandhani, steeped in tradition. Modern and lightweight jewels can create a balance and tone down your look for casual get-togethers, office meetings, and outings. Experience the classic and contemporary look with designer footwear, waistbelts, and clutches.
- Modern Blouses- Get a new interpretation of a bandhani saree and look fashion-forward with trendy blouse designs. Blouses with statement sleeves, bold necklines, and unique cuts can be your stylish choices for premium events and luxury outings.
- Draping Style- While you are wearing the heritage, you can alter the look with a unique draping style. Seedha pallu, nivi drape, Indo-Western style, Mumtaz, and pre-draped style are a few saree draping methods to achieve a unique silhouette.
- Hair and Make-up- You can complete your bandhani saree look with simple, natural, bold, or shiny make-up. You can add a classic touch with a hair bun or a simple high pony. Loose waves and girls look beautiful for a glamorous look in bandhani sarees.
Samyakk helps you achieve an effortless traditional look and contemporary fusion with its huge range of bandhani sarees online. There are lightweight sarees for a minimalistic casual or office statement. Vibrant traditional bandhani sarees with intricate details at Samyakk are a go-to choice for festivals and weddings. Heavy bandhani sarees are also available for bridal vibes. Pick your favorite piece for various occasions like haldi, mehendi, sangeet, and cocktail. These Marwari saree design helps you remain effortlessly stylish everywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What colors shall I opt for the bandhani saree?
Go for yellow, pink, green, and red for festive cheer. You can also go for mixed color schemes for your bandhej saree. Ombre or dual shade is also popular these days. Subtle pastels, ivory, beige, wheat, royal blue, white, and even black are the offering choices for modern appeal.
How can I take care of bandhani sarees?
Dry clean your sarees for at least the first wash. Prefer handwashing if you are cleaning it at home. Use mild detergents and cold water. Avoid drying the saree in direct sunlight as it will fade the bright color of the bandhej saree. It is suggested to keep the saree in a muslin or cotton bag.
What fabrics are best for a bandhani saree collection?
Pure silk, cotton, and georgette are the most preferred options for your bandhani saree collection. These are the traditional fabrics for this hand-dye technique.
Also Read-