Bandhini & Lehariya

Bandhini or Bandhej or Tie & dye is an ancient, resist-dyeing technique, widely prevalent in the states of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The Craft form has been in existence for over 5000 years. Bandhani in India was initiated by the Muslim Khatri Community of Kutch and the tradition has passed down through the generations. The art of Bandhani, a highly skilled process involves dyeing a fabric tied tightly with a thread at several points , thus producing a variety of patterns like Leheriya, Mothra, Ekdali and Shikari depending on the manner in which the cloth is tied. The fabric is tied in intricate patterns with the help of nails, beads or grain. This acts as prevention against seepage of color into the tied areas during dyeing.