bagru

Bagru is a town in Rajasthan, India, located near Jaipur. It is best known for Bagru prints, a traditional hand-block printing technique that has been practiced in the region for centuries. The craft yields textiles with intricate motifs and a characteristic earthy palette, produced on cotton and silk fabrics.

Technique and motifs: Bagru printing uses carved wooden blocks pressed onto fabric in successive steps to build up geometric, floral, and figurative patterns. Historically, natural dyes such as madder red, indigo blue, and plant-based browns were used, with iron mordants to create darker tones. In modern practice, both natural and synthetic dyes may be employed. The process emphasizes careful alignment of blocks, layering of motifs, and attention to repeat patterns, resulting in fabrics used for clothing, scarves, and home textiles.

History and context: The Bagru printing tradition is tied to the artisanal workshops and families of the Bagru region. It shares connections with other Rajasthan block-printing centers, notably Sanganer, but Bagru prints are distinguished by their unique colorways, motifs, and the depth of hand-work involved. The tradition reflects broader Rajasthan textile heritage and has adapted to contemporary markets while retaining traditional methods in many workshops.

Economy and contemporary relevance: Bagru prints remain a significant local industry, supporting numerous craftsmen and small businesses. Today, designers and exporters incorporate Bagru textiles into fashion and home décor, and training programs seek to preserve techniques while enabling modernization. Efforts to promote quality, design development, and fair-trade practices contribute to the ongoing viability of the craft.

See also: Block printing, Sanganer, Jaipur textiles.