Ranki

Introduction : The word Rogan means “Oil” in Persian. With origins in Persia, it came to Kutch around 300 years ago. Rogan painting was initially practiced in several locations in the Kutch region. The painted fabric was mostly purchased by women of the lower castes who wanted to decorate clothing and bed coverings for their weddings. Therefore, it was a seasonal art, with most of the work taking place during the several months when most weddings take place. During the rest of the year, the artisans would switch to other forms of work, such as agriculture . With the rise of cheaper, machine-made textiles in the late 20th century, rogan-painted products became relatively more expensive, and many artists turned to other occupations. This rare craft is practised by a lone Muslim family, the Khatris of Nirona Village, Gujarat. Technique and process: Rogan is a form of textile painting which uses a rich, brightly coloured paint made from castor oil and natural colors...

પાડી પટેલે ભાત, ફાટે પણ ફાટે નહિં।    as per this Gujarati saying colour and design never fade rather the cloth may tear. It shows the fabulous nature of the 11th century craft of patola_ a double Ikat  woven fabrics  usually made from silk.  Indian traditional varieties are pearls in a ocean, every pearls are unique and priceless. This only happens due to hardwork, imaginative skills, craftsmanship and unique execution of ethics weavers who see it as an art rather than a means of livelihood. It is their efforts and market  research that has enable newer varieties to come up with innovative and unique designs to keep the interest bloom in handling fabrics. In turn the weaving industries’ needs push and encouragement for the effortless growth by passing of time.  The name Patola is derived from the Sanskrit word “pattakulla “ . Even though the Patola fabric is said to be of Gujarati origin, its earliest mention is in South India as per ...