Apparel November 2019 Apparel November 2019 issue | Page 42

FEATURE
THE ANCIENT PAINTING AND
BLOCK-PRINTING TECHNIQUE
OF KALAMKARI, TODAY, FINDS
ITS WAY INTO BEAUTIFUL
DUPATTAS AND ODHNIS.
silk dupattas, not to forget the ethereal chikankari
dupattas, which are ideal to be worn during
summers. Fine muslin dupattas, embroidered in
pastel shades, add a touch of delicate elegance
to any kind of ensemble. Phool patti ka kaam is
also extensively done on dupattas—it is, however,
the embroidery done on sheer crepes, chiffons,
and georgettes, which are outstanding; in them,
the fineness of the net is highlighted by the
extremely intricate, breathtaking embroidery. The
lace-like or sheer fabric is embellished using fine
zardozi, kalabattu, and mukaish techniques.
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I APPAREL I
November 2019
The ancient painting and block-printing
technique of kalamkari, today, finds its way into
beautiful dupattas and odhnis. Ajrak-printing is
also done on dupattas, wherein the do-rukha
(double-sidedness) element of the fabric lends
it novelty. Done using natural colours, it is also
a characterisation of eco-friendliness. Block-
printed dupattas from Sanganer and Bagru
have also been seen finding increasing favour.
Bandhani (Indian tie-dye) dupattas in a bright
spectrum of shades, too, are being increasingly
admired in today’s times.
Apart from traditional handmade techniques,
power looms and smaller jacquard looms are
also seen creating some rich patterning.
With boho styles reigning today, dupattas
can even be made into jhola bags or origami
tote bags. All these trends and style fixes only
go on to show that what is technically a mere
cloth is open to a tremendous amount of
adaptation, and remains as relevant today as it
was decades ago.