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Ajrakh Sarees

The designs and patterns that have been passed down through Indian history are some of the most beautiful art forms anywhere on earth. Ajrakh is one of those rare art forms, which can enchant your soul with its immense vibrancy and distinctiveness. Whether it be in the form of traditional or modern-day aesthetics, the astonishing richness of Ajrakh is unparalleled.

15 products
  • Yellow Cotton Ajrakh
    Rs. 3,100.00
    Rs. 3,100.00
    Sold out
  • Black Ajrakh Cotton Saree
    Rs. 3,000.00
    Rs. 3,000.00
    Sold out
  • Monochrome Silk Ajrakh
    Rs. 5,500.00
    Rs. 5,500.00
    Sold out
  • Indigo Kala Cotton Ajrakh
    Rs. 5,200.00
    Rs. 5,200.00
    Sold out
  • Indigo Ajrakh Cotton
    Rs. 2,905.00
    Rs. 2,905.00
    Sold out
  • Madder Indigo silk Ajrakh
    Rs. 5,500.00
    Rs. 5,500.00
    Sold out
  • Brown Silk Ajrakh
    Rs. 5,200.00
    Rs. 5,200.00
    Sold out
  • Yellow Stripe Cotton Ajrakh
    Rs. 3,300.00
    Rs. 3,300.00
    Sold out
  • Red Stripe Cotton Ajrakh
    Rs. 3,300.00
    Rs. 3,300.00
    Sold out
  • Black star Silk Ajrakh
    Rs. 5,700.00
    Rs. 5,700.00
    Sold out
  • Rust Silk Ajrakh
    Rs. 5,200.00
    Rs. 5,200.00
    Sold out
  • Gold Silk Ajrakh
    Rs. 5,500.00
    Rs. 5,500.00
    Sold out
  • Yellow silk Ajrakh
    Rs. 5,100.00
    Rs. 5,100.00
    Sold out
  • Rust cotton Ajrakh
    Rs. 3,100.00
    Rs. 3,100.00
    Sold out
  • Indigo cotton Ajrakh
    Rs. 3,100.00
    Rs. 3,100.00
    Sold out

 

Natural Dyes in Ajrakh Sarees

Ajrakh was traditionally dyed with only natural vegetable dyes. Indigo Blue Alum, molasses, wheat flour, and fennel were used to create the red colour.

The areas to be dyed red are printed and then dusted with ground cow dung or rice husk while still wet to protect against the indigo dye that will be printed later.

To make it thicker, ferrous sulphates, molasses, millet flour, and tamarind seed powder are added. Red, black, and indigo are traditional Ajrak colours. Yellow, orange, and rust are also popular colours for a more modern look these days.

Ajrakh was originally worn by Maldharis, or cattle herders, who used to leave with their cattle before sunrise. Because there was no electricity at the time, it was difficult for them to distinguish between the inside and outside of their clothes, and thus the practice of printing the fabric on both sides began.

Natural dyes make the fabric wearable all year round by imparting a wax-like characteristic that allows the fabric to expand during the summer, making it airy and breathable, and contracts during the winter, keeping you warm.

We can learn so much about sustainability from our forefathers.

Why most of the Ajrakh Sarees or fabrics that you see are dominantly indigo?

You will be fascinated to know that the sky is thought to be the theme of Ajrakh. As the sky changes its colours throughout the day, there is the significance of these colours in Ajrakh Sarees. The colour blue represents the sky, red represents the evening, and black represents the night. Stars are represented by the white star-like motifs. How astonishing is that!

Importance of Indigo dye in Ajrakh Print Saree

Nature plays a significant role in creating any piece of Ajrak. The artisans work in complete harmony with their surroundings.

The block printing process includes the sun, river, animals, trees, and mud. The combination of handloom textiles and vegetable dyes creates magic.

Ajrakh block printing, which uses natural dyes, is one of the oldest resist wooden block printing techniques in India and one of the most complex and sophisticated methods of printing.

What distinguishes Ajrakh from other fabrics is that its qualities extend beyond the intricate patterns. They are washed in running river water, the quality of which influences the colours as well.

These processes add depth to the design by allowing the dyes to ooze into the fabric's warp and weft. A fabric that has been treated to reduce texture and increase durability can be used and reused.

The predominance of indigo and red in dyes allows it to keep the wearer warm in winter and cool in summer.

The Magical Ajrakh Hand Block Printing

The printing wooden block used for the block printing process is chiseled very finely by experts in the field. A set of three blocks creates a dovetailing effect, resulting in the design.

These blocks are made from Acacia Arabica trees, which are native to the Sindh region.

A grid system determines the repeat pattern, which gives the design its personality. The pattern is first transferred to the block, and then the block-maker, who uses very simple tools, carves it with great precision.

The blocks are carved in pairs so that the opposite side can register an exact inverted image.

All Ajrakh sarees are not created equal. Cheaper imitations lack the ability to sustain high-quality dyeing, eventually causing the fabric to break apart or fade to a bland colour.

Only the finest fabrics can pass on their vibrancy and luminosity for generations, creating a truly magnificent craft that has spanned many centuries.

Gift yourself and your loved ones the rich cultural and craft heritage of Ajrakh, this festive season. 

Ajrakh Saree Designs

Ajrakh saree designs are intriguing as they resemble kaleidoscopic patterns. By repeating the block print patterns, a central Jaal (web-like design) is created within a grid.

This grid serves as the foundation for the printer to expand or contract the design. This central design is framed by horizontal and vertical border patterns which are predominantly geometrical patterns.

Common Ajrakh Sarees 

Why is Ajrakh so expensive?

An Ajrakh saree is considered one of the most expensive materials available in the market due to its elaborate production process and intricate design. The high cost of wooden blocks used in Ajrakh printing places a significant financial burden on artisans. There is also the scarcity of water resources, a requirement for Ajrakh printing. There is a lack of new craftspeople to meet the demand.

Which place is famous for Ajrakh print in Rajasthan?

Barmer in Rajasthan is famous for its Ajrakh creations. Today, the Khatri community dominates Ajrakh printing in the few remaining areas where the art is practiced.

How many colors are there in Ajrakh?

The red or blue background of an Ajrakh fabric distinguishes it. Vegetable dyes, such as yellow and green, are also used. Traditional colors include red, blue (indigo), black, and white. The makers of Ajrakh believe that the fabric has warm and cool colors that help to regulate body temperature. Blue helps to cool, while red keeps you warm.