Timeless and Elegant Designs of Bandhej Prints
Ethnic Fashion is a kaleidoscope of enchanting colors and patterns. There are a multitude of prints scattered all over the realm of ethnic fashion. But only a few captivate the heart like the Bandhej Prints, also known as the Bandhani Prints. Rising from the world of hand block prints, rooted deeply in the traditions of Indian ethnic fashion, an art that has transcended all time and space, Bandhej print is a dance of vibrant hues and extremely meticulously crafted patterns expertly crafted, maintaining its allure in the fashion world with its unique qualities. But what is Bandhej and what makes it so special? Let's find out.
The Story Behind Bandhej and Its Origins
Since the 15th century hand block print has been known throughout the world. It once emerged as a form of art from the hands of expert craftsmen in Rajasthan and gradually took the regal form that it has now. Although various types of hand block printing produce many striking prints and designs, the bandhani or the bandhej print is the most noteworthy. Mostly because of the extensive labor that goes into a single decorated fabric.
Derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Band’ which means ‘to tie,’ bandhej print is an art done by pinching a fabric by hand and then tying it in intricate patterns, before dying to bring about the mesmerising results. One of the oldest forms of tie-dyeing, with its roots mostly in Gujarat, the process of bandhej has been found all over the world including Japan, Southeast Asia, and many other countries.
The Timeless Appeal of Bandhej Prints
Bandhej has typically been associated with auspiciousness because of being such a vibrant art form. And thus, earlier the bandheji sarees were used by both Hindus and Muslims as a special fabric to adorn the bride-to-be. It was considered to bring good fortune to the bride if worn at her wedding. While more often than not the mothers of brides were also seen wearing bandheji sarees themselves. And what better way to pay homage to the extraordinary art? Bandhej has persevered through the ages, whether it is in the form of wedding sarees or hand block printed cotton suits for daily use.
Exploring the Rich Colors of Bandhej
Traditionally bandhej is completed on a fabric that has a vibrant mix of multiple hues. This is achieved by starting with a lighter color like yellow and then dyeing and re-dyeing with other darker colors like blue, purple, red, etc. Due to the influence of the modern world and shifting taste, colors like beige, pink, or even black are utilized to create an extra royal impression. While the ideal fabrics for these effects are georgette or cotton. Making them the model for the best kurta set for women from all walks of life.
But the enticement of bandhej does not end at the hues, the patterns made using this art form also play a crucial role in its fame. But the most interesting about that is that even numbers play a significant role in forming these patterns. And to have the perfect cotton suit with dupatta that has a mix of hues oozing elegance is all anyone needs anyway.
The Art of Dots and Patterns in Bandhej
Given that Bandhej is a pattern composed of dots, each dot has its distinct personality. A single dot is called Bundi, four dots are called Chaubundi and seven are Satbundi. There are also tear drop-shaped dots called Trikunti.
These dots, or sometimes groups of dots are used to make a variety of patterns, all ranging from mountains to leaves and from human figures to flowers. These hues and patterns make for the perfect attire and undoubtedly make the best kurta set for women.
Modern Takes on Traditional Bandhej
Bandhej or bandhani fabrics and prints have always been a staple and making their way into the modern closets of the contemporary woman they are found almost everywhere. From wedding seasons to casual days bandheji has become the go-to for many women worldwide. With very little need to add heavy embellishments such as ornaments or other accessories, bandhej print clothing can carry themselves very well.
This brings us to wonder, how is bandhej perceived in the modern fashion world. Salwar suits or anarkalis from Rajasthan and Jaipur are usually held in higher esteem in the ethnic modern fashion world since they are both gracious and gorgeous, especially when
hand block printed. Much like that, bandhej is now seen as a fashion statement. Widely worn by modern women these badheji prints or fabrics are the best kurta set for women to look and feel dignified in.
Present-Day Glamour with Bandhej
After being rigorously tested to withstand the changing fashion needs of the modern world, it is safe to say that Bandhej has successfully made its name at the top of the list when it comes to ethnic fashion. From everyday life to glimmering occasions, bandhej can be seen everywhere as they become the perfect bet for women not just in India but also worldwide.
Be it sarees, kurtis, ghagras, or dupattas, or graceful cotton Anarkali suit, bandhej can be found on all kinds of fabrics in multiple design formats made to achieve and provide the best results. When all else fails a little tye-dye fabric in the form of bandhej is what you need as the winning shot.
At Kahva we appreciate the Indian roots of ethnicity and embrace the hand block print culture with grace emphasizing bandhej prints and their intricacies in every way. From hand block print kurtis to cotton Jaipuri kurtis, each piece at Kahva tells a story of intricately crafted fabric that helps you look like a million dollars whatever the occasion.
