Block Print of Southern India comprises the exquisite `Kalamkari` print of Andhra Pradesh and other beautiful prints of the Indian states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala. Wooden blocks are employed in this process, though some parts of Southern India also favour hand block printed products.
Block Print of Andhra Pradesh
`Kalamkari` block print is an exclusive block print technique in Andhra Pradesh. Derived from the words `kalam` meaning pen and `kari` implies work, which means art performed with the aide of pens. Two main areas which specialise in Kalamkari block printing are Sri Kalashashti and Machulipatnam. A combination of hand printing and painting is utilized in carrying out block prints in Andhra Pradesh. This craft was quite sought after and spread over to the eastern coastal areas of Tamil Nadu. The block printed textiles manufactured in this region are known `Coromandel Chintz` and are in high demand across the globe.
Local specialist block print artisans proceed with the intricate and complex procedures, which are associated with this craft. `Lepakshi` printed products are well known in Hyderabad, which were immensely popular throughout the country about 18 years ago. Generally, the base material used while performing block printing is cotton obtained from the mills. Chirala, Vijayawada and Tuni are the various parts of this state from which fabrics of block print are obtained.
Block printing of Southern India has been a renowned since British Raj and block printed materials of this region were exported as far as Southeast Asia and Europe. Motifs used are mainly animal and floral designs. The patterns of ornamental birds, `mehrabs`, creepers and flowers are visible in several block printed textiles of Southern India.
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