Bandhani Tales

Bandhani Tales

07 September, 23

5 min read

Multicolored  Bandhani Sarees By Taneira
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Bandhani Tales: Here's What Makes These Tie And Dye Sarees Special

It’s incredible how tie and dye patterns combine to create a novel design everytime you see them being done on a fabric. Did you know that this craft is rooted in Indian history and has a rich heritage associated with it?

The art form of Bandhani, also known as Bandhej, can be traced back thousands of years. It is believed that the technique became popular during the Indus Valley Civilisation, that thrived from 3300 BC to 1700 BC. Historians have been able to discover many arts and artefacts that have evidences of the tie-dye technique. However, the history of Bandhani is associated with various stories and folklore that add to its significance.

Green Bandhani Sarees By Taneira

Taneira endeavours to breathe new life into this age-old craft as the Brand collaborates with talented artisans with a heritage of craftsmanship. Over the years, Bandhani was revived and strengthened in the Indian states of Rajasthan and Gujarat so much so that the art form has become synonymous with these states. This textile art form was traditionally created by artisans from the Khatri communities in Gujarat, and has been passed on from generation to generation. Each family refined this textile art in their own unique ways and added to it something new and refreshing. The result is the gorgeous range of Bandhej sarees we find today, each crafted with love and utmost care.

How Are Bandhani Patterns Made?

The term Bandhani comes from the word ‘bandhan’ which means to bind. Simply put, it involves tying warp thread on small portions of a fabric, thus creating various knots. The fabric is then dyed and dried, after which the knots are opened to reveal distinctive and stunning Bandhani patterns. In some cases, the artisans sketch the desired pattern on the fabric before tying the knots. How an artisan combines various Bandhani patterns and brings them together through this technique is what determines the look of the final Bandhani garment.

Taneira’s innovative approach along with the artisans’ specialized techniques help create a fine balance between vibrant tradition and modern aesthetics. This is reflected in our Bandhani saree collection, which has garnered a new generation of admirers.

Blue Bandhani Sarees By Taneira

What are the Various Types of Bandhani?

Creating Bandhani patterns on sarees is a meticulous and highly skilled process, involving design sense and intricacy at every stage. While the knots can be tied in any fashion and can be used to create one-of-a-kind patterns, there are some standard types of Bandhani that have become popular worldwide. For instance:

  • Ek Dali: A single dot pattern is known as Ek Dali. It involves tying knots at regular intervals across the fabric.

  • Tikunthi: This style is characterised by small circles and squares appearing in groups of three.

  • Chaubundi: This tie-dye style involves four small circles or squares arranged in a symmetrical design all over the fabric.

  • Leheriya: It is a wave-like pattern and features long diagonal lines across the width of the fabric. If you’re particularly looking for the Bandhani of Rajasthan, Leheriya will be a great choice.

  • Laddu Jalebi: As the name suggests, it involves knots tied in a circular manner, resulting in a swirling Bandhani pattern.

How is the Bandhani of Gujarat Different from the Bandhani of Rajasthan?

Alike in many ways, the Bandhani of Gujarat and the Bandhani of Rajasthan have their distinct characteristics as well. Let’s look at these differences through the lenses of colours and patterns.

Colours: The Bandhani of Gujarat uses a very vibrant colour palette and often merges two or more shades in one saree. This may include colours such as bright red, fuchsia, orange and green, to name a few. The Rajasthani form of Bandhani stands out with its use of colours like royal blue, deep red and purple and zari embellishments.

Dark Blue Bandhani Sarees By Taneira

Patterns: Rajasthan is very popular for its wavy Leheriya pattern and traditional Rajasthani motifs on fabrics. On the other hand, Gujarat is well-known for Bandhani patterns that are a combination of floral and geometric motifs, evenly spread out on the fabric.

Exploring the Vibrance of Bandhani Sarees

Bandhani sarees are among the most preferred options when it comes to occasion wear. Traditional Bandhani sarees are much loved for the patterns they flaunt and the myriad hues they are available in. While staying true to the essence of Bandhani, Taneira’s saree collections also cater to modern tastes. They are a true reflection of the rich Indian culture, yet seamlessly merge in the modern-day saree styles and look graceful no matter the occasion.

The wide range of colours used in Bandhani sarees also make them perfect for women of all ages. What’s more, colours are representative of emotions and seasons in the Indian culture. For instance, brides and brides-to-be often choose a classic red Bandhej saree as the colour stands for love. Yellow symbolises happiness, prosperity and new beginnings. Green represents nature and harmony, blue stands for peace and calmness, and purple represents royalty and luxury.

Bandhani sarees are ideal for various occasions, including weddings, festivals, family gatherings or even casual wear. Taneira boasts of an excellent assortment of Bandhani sarees in fabrics like Silk, Georgette and Kota, and you’re sure to find something to suit your taste. The different types of Bandhani sarees here are:

  • The Silk sarees with Bandhani patterns look regal and have unique tie-dye patterns on them. They are great for winter weddings and other big celebrations.

  • Georgette Bandhani sarees are lightweight and airy, making them an ideal choice for summer outings, family gatherings and even day functions.

  • Kota sarees give me a more casual look, and can be accessorised with oxidised or gold jewellery to give them a semi-formal look. Kota Bandhani Sarees have often made their way into wardrobes of working women too.

Caring For Your Bandhani Sarees

  1. Handwashing (with a mild detergent) or dry cleaning your Bandhani saree is always recommended. If you wash the saree at home, avoid soaking it for too long.

  2. Avoid drying the saree in direct sunlight as it can damage the colours.

  3. Always iron your Bandhani sarees on the reverse side and on low heat.

  4. Fold with minimal creases and store in a cool, dry place in a Cotton or Muslin saree bag.

The textile art of Bandhani has been around for thousands of years, and yet continues to charm saree lovers everywhere. Whether it is the love for Bandhani patterns or the flamboyant colours that these sarees come in, there are reasons enough for you to fall in love with it. Be prepared to be spoilt for choice as you head to a Taniera store to shop for Bandhani sarees. Some of these sarees boast of abstract Bandhani patterns all over, while some others come with thick gold borders for a formal touch. You can also check the traditional saree collection online and enjoy doorstep delivery and convenient payment options.

Every Bandhani pattern saree is a work of art in itself. In today’s world, where we are constantly on the lookout for new and fresh perspectives, this art form truly captures the hearts of many. Not only do Bandhani sarees represent a fusion of traditional and contemporary styles, but their bright shades also infuse happiness into our day-to-day lives. Have you added one to your wardrobe yet?