Ajrakh Printing The Timeless Art of Handcrafted Patterns

1. Ajrakh Printing: The Timeless Art of Handcrafted Patterns Fashion is not only just clothing; it is a story woven into every thread. Ajrakh printing is a timeless art that has survived the test of time and has continued to leave its mark on ethnic wear with its rich heritage, brilliant colors, and elaborate designs. Ajrakh is no mere piece of cloth; it stands for tradition, sustainability, and craftsmanship. We will indulge in a journey through the origin, evolution, and process of Ajrakh printing, and explore why it is valued in Indian attire even today. The Origin of Ajrakh Printing Ajrakh printing has deep roots in Indian heritage, dating back nearly 4,000 years. It originated in Sindh (now in Pakistan), and it later found its way to Kutch, Gujarat, and Rajasthan, where it flourished with support from local artisans. The name "Ajrakh" is said to be derived from the Arabic word "Azrak,"which means “blue,” this color is widely used in traditional Ajrakh patterns. This craft was traditionally practiced by the Khatri community, who mastered it and passed it down through generations. Ajrakh cloths were worn by royals, traders, and even nomadic communities, making them an important part of India’s richtextile heritage. The Evolution of Ajrakh in Modern Times While Ajrakh printing remains true to its origins, it has evolved to fit modern fashion trends. Once limited to shawls, dupattas, and sarees, today Ajrakh is widely used in Ajrakh co-ord sets to straight- fit kurtas and ethnic wear with forward-thinking designs, Ajrakh has entered practically every territory today. At Naseebo, we honor this heritage by blending centuries-old art with contemporary aesthetics through Ajrakh prints in our Terra Collection. Whether you love Ajrakh print co-ord sets for office wear or a modal silk Ajrakh fabric kurta for festive occasions, our collection brings the best of both worlds. How Ajrakh Printing is Done: A Labor of Love It is an Indian block printing technique that uses natural dyes and hand-carved wooden blocks to create intricate patterns on fabric. Ajrakh printing is one of the most complex and detailed fabric printing techniques in the world. It takes up to 14-16 days to complete a single piece. Step-by-Step Process of Ajrakh Printing: 1. Preparing the Fabric:

2. The fabric is first washed to remove impurities and soaked in natural ingredients like castor oil and camel dung, which soften the fibers and prepare them for dyeing. 2. Hand-Carved Wooden Blocks: Artisans use hand-carved wooden blocks to create symmetrical and complex designs, stamping the fabric in a repetitive pattern. 3. Multiple Dyeing Stages: Ajrakh prints use natural dyes made from indigo, madder root, turmeric, pomegranate peels, and iron rust, giving the fabric its signature deep reds, blues, and blacks. 4. Resist Printing: A resist paste made of lime and gum Arabic is applied to prevent certain areas from absorbing dyes, resulting in striking contrast patterns. 5. Sun-Drying & Washing: The fabric is washed and dried under the harsh desert sun, which enhances the colors and sets the print permanently. Each piece of Ajrakh fabric is unique, carrying the imprint of the artisan’s hand, making it a true representation of handmade clothing art. Conclusion: The Art That Never Fades Ajrakh printing is more than just a design—it is a tribute to the rich heritage of Indian clothes. Even with the ascent of fast fashion, this hand-made art is still cherished for certain, proving that true craftsmanship never fades. At Naseebo, the Terra Collection presents a beautiful Ajrakh print co-ord set with straight-fit kurtas and ethnic ensembles that showcase Indian classical tradition in the modern era.