Bandhani or Bandhej is the oldest form of Tie & Die art that started about 5000 years ago. Historical evidence suggests that the first Bandani Saree was worn at a royal wedding during Bana Bhatta’s harshacharita.
The Ajanta Caves also have a visual representation of Bandhej, and this ancient form of art is still practiced mainly in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat and some parts of Uttar Pradesh.
The word Bandhani comes from the Sanskrit word "Banda". This means "bind". Bandani's art is to dye fabrics that are tightly tied with threads in several places to create different patterns.
Bandhani/ Bandhej making process
Bandhani is usually made of cotton and silk fabrics by tying the dough tightly and soaking it for a dyeing bath. The borders of the fabric are then dyed in bold and vibrant colors.
Bandhani's art is as exciting as its history. The fabric to be dyed is tied very tightly with knots in various places and then dyed with an unusual color.
When this tied fabric is dyed, these threads or knots leave that part undyed, leaving it white or regardless of the color of the fabric. Once the cloth is dyed, it is left to air dry.
It may take some time to dry depending on the weather. In the monsoon, it takes about 2 days to dry, but in the summer, it only takes 4-5 hours. It takes about 6-7 hours to dry in winter.
Variety of Bandhani/ Bandhej
The result of this Bandhani tie & dye technique is a beautifully dyed fabric with elaborate shapes and designs, such as flowers and bells. The most common clusters and patterns of knots made from clusters each have their own name.
Ekdali: single dot
Tikunthi: three dots that make circles and squares
Chaubundi: four dots
Satbandi: dots in groups of seven
Boond: small dot with a dark center
Kodi: tear or drop-shaped pattern
Dungar Shahi or Shikargah: a mountain like pattern
Jaaldar: web like pattern
Beldaar: vine like pattern
Laddu Jalebi: swirling pattern
Leheriya: wave-like pattern
How should Bandhani sarees be maintained?
Care of the Bandani saree (and all fabrics made with Bandani) is very important. This is because it is a delicate craft that can lose its color and vibrancy due to negligence.
Bandani saree is carefully rolled and finished before it is sold. A similar process must be followed by the wearer prior to each wear. Use only steam irons to iron these sarees.
Each Bandani saree should only be dry cleaned (Petrol wash). Otherwise, the color will be lost. This sari is a delicate sari, so you need to have a good sari fall.
Global Appeal of Bandhani Sarees
Bandhani is really an art, and it's not only common for women to wear Bandhej costumes, but also for men to wear Bandhej-themed turbans.
The main market is Gujarat, but it is sold throughout India due to the increasing demand over the last few decades. Sales for weddings and holiday seasons have skyrocketed. It is mainly used by women in festivals as Odhnis.
Bandhani Sarees @ Indian ClothStore
We at Indianclothstore have a wide variety of authentic Bandhani Sarees straight from the heart of Gujarat, Ahmedabad.
Pick your favorite saree, add it to your cart and order it, and we will deliver it anywhere in the world from India to your front door.
So, don't think too much about it. Order today and enjoy the authenticity of this beautiful Bandhani saree.
