Ajrakh - hand block print

Ajrakh - hand block print

The Muslim Khatris in the Kutch region of Gujarat have been practising Ajrakh for centuries. This traditional craft of hand block printing is done using natural colours.
A commonly shared story among printers in the local community is that Aj-rakh is said to mean 'keep it today'. It is also associated with 'Azrakh', which can be traced back to the Arabic word meaning indigo, a colour which is the core essence of this captivating craft.
Ajrakh patterns use complex geometry to create starry constellations in indigo, madder, black, and white across lengths of cloth. The shapes and motifs of Ajrakh echo the architectural forms of Islamic architecture’s intricate jali windows and trefoil arches.

Ancient Craft of Block Print - Ajrakh

A fabric being hand printed with Ajrakh blocks

Ajrakh, an ancient traditional form of block printing, stands as a testament to the rich heritage of Indian textiles. Rooted in the ancient craft traditions of the Indian subcontinent, Ajrakh has flourished in the arid regions of Kachchh, Gujarat and Rajasthan for centuries. Renowned for its intricate designs, earthy vibrant colors, and eco-friendly practices, Ajrakh has become an integral part of the cultural fabric, adorning sarees and garments with timeless elegance.

Historical Roots

The history of Ajrakh dates back over 4,000 years, tracing its origins to the civilizations of the Indus Valley. The term "Ajrakh" is derived from the Arabic word "Azrak," meaning blue, a color that features prominently in the traditional Ajrakh palette. The craft has been passed down through generations, with artisans preserving and refining its techniques, making it a cherished part of India's textile heritage. Ajrakh" is rooted in Sindhi, holds a cultural depth embodying both textile artistry and a colloquial expression, "aj rakh," translating to "keep it for today." This alludes to the meticulous time intervals required in the intricate, time-consuming processes involved in the craft, reflecting its labor-intensive nature.

Craftsmanship and Technique

Ajrakh involves a complex process that begins with the preparation of the natural fibre fabric, typically cotton or silk. The fabric is treated with a mixture of natural substances like alum and clay, creating a base for the dye to adhere. A set of wooden blocks carved by master artisans with traditional motifs, such as geometric patterns, floral designs, and paisleys, are used for block printing.

The craft employs a resist-dyeing technique, where specific areas of the fabric are covered with a resist paste made from clay, gum, and lime. The fabric is then dipped in natural dyes derived from plants, minerals, and other organic sources. This process is repeated multiple times, with different blocks and colours, resulting in the layering of intricate patterns and a harmonious blend of colours.

Regional Influence

Ajrakh has strong roots in the Kutch region of Gujarat, where communities of Khatri Muslim artisans have preserved and enriched the craft. The Kutchi Ajrakh is known for its bold geometric designs and vibrant color combinations. Each region imparts its unique touch to Ajrakh, showcasing a variety of patterns and styles that resonate with the local culture and traditions.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness

One of the remarkable aspects of Ajrakh is its commitment to sustainability. The use of natural dyes made from plants like indigo (neela), madder (manjistha), and pomegranate (dadim), along with eco-friendly resist pastes, makes Ajrakh an environmentally conscious craft. This eco-friendly approach not only adds to the allure of Ajrakh but also aligns with contemporary values of sustainable fashion. The products of Ajrakh span sarees, blouses, dupattas, dress materials, and home furnishings in silk & cotton.

 

Alluring Ajrakh - Natural Dyed Authentic Sarees from Chakor

CHAKOR's Alluring Ajrakh

At CHAKOR, we exalt the timeless allure of Ajrakh in our exquisite collection of sarees and dupattas. Our dedicated artisans meticulously craft each piece, ensuring the authentic reproduction of Ajrakh patterns with precision. The vibrant earthy colors echo the energy and richness of nature. Our Ajrakh sarees, crafted from handloom Mangalgiri cotton, adorned with a zari border, and lustrous modal cotton with its satiny feel, showcase authentic and traditional artistry. These creations reflect the profound cultural heritage and artistic finesse inherent in this traditional craft. Through our commitment, we strive to not only preserve the craft but also contribute to nature conservation.