Bandhani Sari, Silk

The term Bandhani is derived from the Sanskrit word banda which means 'to tie'. While many dying techniques exist in India, it is the Bandhani tradition which is by far the most popular. It involves bunching together parts of the cloth, such that it makes a pinched circle, and then tying it together.

Bandhani saris are extremely popular in Gujarat, where they were widely made by the Khatri community of Kutch and Saurashtra. Jamnagar in Saurashtra, was especially known for its bright red colour which it was said was a result of the water that brought out the colour while dyeing. Bright red saris, such as the one seen here, were generally worn by the bride as red was considered auspicious for the married couple’s life.