How Kalamkari Shawls Are Different From Regular Shawls

If you haven’t heard the name before, you must be wondering, “What are Kalamkari Shawls? “

Kalamkari is almost as old as human civilization. It is hand-crafted ancient Indian art which is done on cotton using natural plant-based dyes and colors using a bamboo brush. 

This art originated from the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, where it normally illustrated bright pichwai paintings on cotton sarees. 

This will tell you all about what makes Kalamkari shawls special.

Origin of Kalamkari

Archeologists discovered the fabric of Kalamkari art in the ancient city of Mohenjo-Daro, which dates back to 3000 B.C. The art is known to have taken various shapes and finally, it came in this form during the period of Golconda rule under the Mughals. 

During this time, it gained its present name "Kalamkari". Though it was earlier called "Pattachitra".

Types of Kalamkari Shawls

Major styles in Kalamkari shawls include Srikalahasti and Machilipatnam.

Srikalahasti Style: This style is characterized by the use of freehand drawings. They usually feature episodes from Hindu epic myths and other narratives. 

It was developed from the demand of religious art on a canvas and attracts those who appreciate the fact that some stories can be read through colorful pictures or paintings.

Machilipatnam Style: Machilipatnam uses elaborate hand-carved block printing. It arose from the commerce mindset in place. 

This style makes use of block prints, which result in a more precise and cleaner pattern on the shawls.

One can see different characteristics of shawls in Kalamkari. Each has its different expression on the surface, and within itself.

Symbolism in Kalamkari Shawls

Kalamkari shawls are full of symbolism. In the past, these were offered as dedications to Hindu gods, depicting mythological figures, floral motifs, and folk tale scenes. 

Nowadays, the designs of Kalamkari shawls are made in nature motifs, such as peacocks and flowers, paisley patterns, and geometric designs reflecting both traditional and contemporary themes.

Colors in Kalamkari

Colors in a Kalamkari Shawl are chosen with a lot of thought and deliberation, not merely for their symbolic connotations but also because they express feelings and moods while narrating a story. 

Earth-friendly plant-based dyes portray the aspects of the story very thoughtfully. Rich red tones are opted for effervescent grand scales while earthy tones are for sad-inclined stories. 

Each color brings depth to the story while giving an exquisite look to the Shawl.

The Process of Creating a Kalamkari Shawl

It takes 23 steps to develop a Kalamkari Shawl, each of which must be done using only organic materials. The cloth is immersed in buffalo milk before it is left under the sun to dry. 

The application of art is divided into areas where every color is sought from the root, flower, seed, and other products found in nature. 

This results in a rich, multi-colored art piece with red, green, yellow, and blue colors.

Cultural Significance of the Kalamkari Shawls

A Kalamkari pashmina shawl is no ornament; it is the epitome of culture. It carries the fragments of Indian civilization and itself forms an ode to Hindu epics, Gods, and the very human race. 

Owning a Kalamkari shawl is as close as one can get to owning history, and passing it on enables the legacy to continue through generations and generations.

How to Care for Kalamkari Shawls

Kalamkari shawls are quite sensitive and require special care to maintain their beauty and longevity. One needs to wash them with cashmere shampoo and lukewarm water and must dry them in the shade. 

They should not be kept directly in the sun; when ironing them, a cotton cloth should be kept between the shawl and the iron or steam iron must be used. 

When keeping in storage, instead of using plastic, they can be wrapped in paper or kept in muslin cloth with naphthalene balls to elongate their lifespan.

Authentic Kalamkari shawls are available from select sellers who respect the integrity of the art form. Brands like Taroob, also feature a selection of authentic Kalamkari pieces, known for their quality and craftsmanship.

Conclusion: Timeless Legacy

Kalamkari shawls symbolize India's rich artistic heritage, so to speak, with mastery in the art of pen ("Kalam") and craft ("Kari"). 

This art form stretches between tradition and luxury, offering something beautiful, sustainable, and nearly untainted by modern fashion statements. 

Kalamkari supports local artisans and preserves artistic heritage worth saving and respecting. 

As we enjoy this singular art, we ensure that a treasure of immense cultural value will live on through the ages.

I hope now you have a fair idea of what are Kalamkari shawls and what makes them unique.