BANDHEJ : Past to Present | Process to Pattern

Bandhej; A traditional tie and dye technique of Rajasthan. The iconic patterns it create has a huge connection to my memories. So for my recent body of work I decided to research and learn about this unique process. Also I documented samples of fabric I saved over the years from my mother's trunk of sarees. And used them as an emotional as well as visual reference for my work.

The technique involves dyeing a fabric which is tied tightly with threads at several points, thus producing a variety of patterns like Leheriya, Mothra depending on the manner in which the cloth is tied. Even the name 'Bandhej or Bandhani' is derived from the Hindi word 'Bandhan' which means Tying up.

I found the visuals of various steps involved in Bandhej very engaging. The fabric that look so delicate with these beautiful vibrant patterns actually undergoes series of harsh labor intensive processes and I found it very close to the metal treatment I do for enameling my products.

Beside being visually enticing, these Bandhej drapes are worn and celebrated by women of Rajastahan very festively. Every festival and season have its own Bandhej, black for Diwali, pink for Holi.

Bandhej in Pattern ; 'Bandhej' earrings 2014

Bandhej in Process ; Prototype 2014