Block Print of Central India

Block Print is an age old traditional art. This exquisite art is found on a number of articles like bed spreads, Saris, table cloth etc. In block printing, wooden blocks having embossed motifs are dipped in coloured dyes and are pressed over fabrics to make beautiful patterns. This art is prevalent in various regions of the country and Block Print of Central India is especially famed for its alluring beauty.

In Madhya Pradesh, this art is practiced since ancient times and new and modern techniques have evolved over time. Artisans of the state are adept in making artefacts like quilts, jajams, lugda, mats, and dress materials. Mostly natural colours are used in block printing which are extracted from fruit skin, Lac, turmeric roots and other substances, whereas sometimes chemical dyes are also used. The dyes render a rich and vibrant look to the articles.

In Madhya Pradesh, several centres have been identified producing magnificent artefacts of block printing. The most popular centres of block printing are Tarapur and Umedpur whereas Bherongarh near Ujjain is popular as the headquarters of this art. Each of the centres has developed its unique and distinct style of block print which have been greatly influenced by traditions and culture of the respective areas. Consequently a vast range of patterns and designs have evolved in this art which make it a versatile one. The most renowned designs of block printing are from Bagh and Javad. Apart from this, other areas which have emerged prominently for this art are Khairola in West Nimad district, Narsinghpur in Naroighpur district and Sehore and Ashta in Sehore district.

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