Bandhej & Bandhani Fabrics

What are Bandhej & Bandhani?

Bandhej or Bandhani are popularly known as dotted sarees. They are a specialty of Rajasthan and Gujarat. Any visitor to Jaipur, Jodhpur or Udaipur or any town in Rajasthan for that matter, will not miss seeing the colourful bandhani fabrics or dupattas while shopping. Men and women use them as drapes, pagadis, dupattas, sarees and dress materials.

Available at Delhi:- Rajasthali

Available at Jaipur:- MK Textiles, Rana’s, Ratan Deep, Pratapsons

Shops in Kolkata:- Rajgharana Sarees, Rajasthali-Rajasthan Govt Handicraft Emporium

Available at Mumbai:- Narayani Silk House Indraprasth Mall 

Bandhej Sarees

The colours of the sarees & dupattas are very attractive and fascinating. The fuchsia pinks, cherry reds, the magentas and the copper sulphate blues really stand out. the popularity of the bandhani sarees can be seen from the fact that the same age old designs in chiffon & georgette are still used. Simple bandhani sarees in chiffon are still in fashion as compared to newer designs that flood the market today, How is it done -Bandhej & Bandhani.

How are Bandhej Sarees made

The sarees and fabrics are made by the Tie & Dye method.

Artisans wrap fine threads around small pinches of white fabric to create an intricate pattern. Bandhan means bond (tied) in the Hindi language. Hence they are referred to as bandhej or bandhani. They are distinct and uniquely patterned, Artisans soak the white fabric in coloured water. The points they tie the fabric retain its original colour. Hence the white dots on the fabrics.

Bandhani is available in rich colours and the dots are often in white. Further, artisans make use of satin, georgette and silks to create the bandhani sarees. Cotton bandhani dresses are very popular in summer. In addition, bandhani skirts, salwar kameez are also popular now. Colourful Bandhani dupattas, when paired with plain white dresses, really make a statement. Gotta work on a bandhani saree adds its own charm.

Finally, bandhani makes for a regal pagidi (head gear for men). They are available in a host of designs. Pagidis are are certainly a mark of identification of the clan and the region they represent.