India, being a diverse nation has a variety of handloom from the different parts of India. Indian handlooms are recognized around the globe for their richness, diversity, and excellence which are also the representation of our priceless history. Our nation has always curated rich weaves, Unique pieces of textile, and vibrant colors & prints which makes us stand apart in the entire world. The designs and weaves from the different states of India represent their culture and give a distinct identity to the crafts. Inspired by nature, temple and fort architecture, rural life, and geometric patterns, these prints in rich brilliant colors say a thousand messages to the people.

We have hundreds of thousands of prints to pick from, thanks to outstanding artisans from all around the country pouring their imaginations into the fabric. Whether it's flowers, animal patterns, or abstract artwork, our artists and craftspeople strive to create something unique every time they put on their thinking caps. Many rural families still earn their living with this creative artwork and so India has managed to preserve its culture, art, and artisans. So, here is a list of some of the most popular Indian Traditional prints that have garnered widespread popularity.

KALAMKARI

The word Kalamkari is the blend of two words 'kalam' meaning pen and 'Kari' meaning art, hence it can also be termed a Pen craft. It is one of the most exquisite traditional Indian art forms which comprises block printing or hand printing on cotton textiles. The Kalamkari art is distinguished by the use of exclusively natural colors or vegetable dyes.

The History of Kalamkari Painting in India

Kalamkari Painting Art is largely found in Andhra Pradesh, mainly in Kalahasti and Machilipatnam, as well as in a few other small towns. Kalamkari Fabric art was formerly the home occupation of countless rural women and artisans and was passed from generation to generation. Andhra Pradesh is still the country's primary center for Kalamkari Painting.

Because there was an increased demand for these printed Kalamkari fabrics in the foreign market, kalamkari artists were forced to modernize some of the traditional, Hindu-mythology-inspired kalamkari motifs. As a result, Persian art gradually became one of the primary inspirations for the original kalamkari designs.

Kalamkari Painting on Fabric

Kalamkari Painting on Fabric is broadly categorized into two styles - Machilipatnam and Srikalahasti. The ancient dyeing method passed down from their ancestors is still used by artisans who practice the Srikalahasti type of kalamkari art. Hindu mythology serves as the primary source of design inspiration for the Srikalahasti style.

One extremely significant characteristic of the Srikalahasti style is free-hand drawing. The process starts with the craftsman applying a mordant to the cotton fabric and drawing the design in black or "kasami" on the fabric. Only natural plant-based pigments from indigo, green, red, and vivid yellow were utilized to fill in the sketched sketch. As a result, each work of kalahasti kalamkari art is completely original and genuine.

Due to the fact that it is not strictly "pen craft," the Machilipatnam form of kalamkari differs from the kalahasti style. The craftsman uses hand-carved blocks to create his illustration and the main design elements for the kalamkari art in the Machilipatnam style. For many years these blocks were continuously used by several craftsmen.

Beautiful color patterns that flow across a range of various topics are a hallmark of kalamkari art. Figures of ladies in yellow, devils in green and red, and Gods in blue tones are frequently seen. The most typical background for these prints is a lotus theme.

The artisan chooses the cloth and colors before beginning the kalamkari printing process. Next, either cow or goat dung is used to bleach the selected piece of clothing. In order to stop the color from transferring, it is further treated with a milk and myrobalan solution.

MUGHAL PRINTS

Mughal designs originated in India during the reign of the Mughal Empire (which spanned from the 16th to the 18th Century). Mughal painting, like Mughal architecture (the most famous example being the Taj Mahal), has become a visual byword for Indian art. Mughal block print is distinguished by its rich use of color and meticulous detail and is heavily influenced by Far Eastern and European painting.

Mughal block print basically demonstrates figurative details to depict traditionalism. Symplico offers a wide range of Mughal print fabrics in various patterns & eye-catchy hues.

The beauty of Mughal print fabric is itself enough to elevate your ensemble. It never becomes too cluttered or chaotic when tailored into the proper suit. Mughal Print fabric remains the stapes of heritage prints as well as of our traditional closet.