A Designer’s Journey into the Art of Bagru Prints

Some places are not just destinations; they are experiences. Bagru, a quiet village near Jaipur, is one such place. As I stepped into its lanes, I was greeted by the rhythmic sounds of artisans at work—the soft thud of wooden blocks being pressed onto fabric, the earthy scent of natural dyes, and the sight of long yards of cloth drying under the sun. It was a world untouched by haste, where craftsmanship was still an art, not an industry. As a designer for Bbaawri, I had always admired Bagru prints, but being there, watching the process unfold before my eyes, made me realize just how much effort and soul go into every piece of fabric.

 

Bagru’s block printing technique is a tradition that has been passed down for generations. The process begins with skilled artisans carving intricate designs into wooden blocks, their hands moving with an ease that comes from years of practice. These blocks are then dipped into natural dyes—deep reds from madder root, earthy browns from pomegranate peels, rich indigos from fermented leaves—and stamped onto fabric with perfect precision. One of the most fascinating methods used here is Dabu printing, where a mud resist is applied to create stunning layered designs. The fabric is sprinkled with sawdust to keep the mud in place, left to dry under the open sky, and then dipped into dye vats. The final reveal is always magical—each piece unique, shaped by the hands that made it and the elements that nurtured it.

While Bagru and Sanganer are both celebrated for their hand block prints, they tell very different stories. Sanganer prints are delicate, floral, and often done in bright colors on a white background, making them light and airy. Bagru prints, on the other hand, are bolder, more rooted in earthy hues, and rich with geometric and nature-inspired motifs. The techniques differ too—Sanganer prints often use rapid screen printing now, while Bagru remains true to its roots with traditional wooden blocks and natural dyes. Bagru’s prints carry a rustic charm, a certain depth that comes from their handmade imperfections, making each piece one-of-a-kind.

 

One of the most inspiring parts of my journey was meeting Giri, my collaborator and friend, who is a master dyer himself. His family has been in this craft for generations, and his knowledge of colors, fabrics, and the chemistry behind natural dyes is unparalleled. Sitting with him, listening to stories of how his ancestors worked with age-old recipes to create the perfect shades, made me realize that Bagru printing is more than a technique—it is a legacy. Every shade of color holds meaning, every motif has a history, and every artisan carries forward the wisdom of those who came before them.

 

 

 

Yet, in today’s fast-paced world, this craftsmanship is struggling to survive. AI and digital printing can mimic patterns, but they can never replicate the soul of handmade textiles. No machine can capture the slight variations in color that come from natural dyes or the small human imperfections that make each piece unique. In an age where people are spoilt for choice, handcrafts like Bagru print risk being forgotten, pushed aside by mass production and instant fashion. The beauty of something slow, deliberate, and deeply personal is at stake.

 

 

At Bbaawri, we believe in keeping this art alive, not just as a tradition but as a living, evolving part of contemporary fashion. Our upcoming collection will weave Bagru prints into modern wardrobes, blending heritage with style. Classic kurtas, elegant dupattas, statement blouses, and even chic co-ord sets—each piece will carry the authenticity of Bagru, but with a fresh, wearable twist. These prints are not just patterns; they are stories, memories, and a tribute to the artisans who pour their hearts into every block they press.

Bagru print is more than just fabric—it is history, culture, and an art form that deserves to thrive. And now, through Bbaawri, it is ready to become a part of your story too.