Since the introduction of luxury wraps in the valley, Kalamkari Shawls have been a lifesaver for locals. Pashmina Shawls is one of the best shawls.
Pashmina Shawls were not only a great rescuer in the valley’s worst winters, but they also made a good investment. These shawls were often sold to meet financial needs. Pashmina Shawls are much more than fashion accessories. They are highly cherished by older generations. It is also a Pashmina Kalamkari Shawl if you grew up hearing about the heirloom shawl your grandmother passed down through generations.
Handwoven luxury Pashmina Shawls from Cashmere wool was originally intended to keep one warm. It was a Sufi saint, traveller, and who visited Kashmir. Cashmere wool was discovered in Ladakh by him, which he grew over the skin of an exotic goat. It was made into socks for him; he found them to be extremely warm and comfortable.
What Is Kalamkari?
Kalamkari comes from two words: ‘Kalam,’ which means ‘Pen,’ and ‘Kari, which means ‘work.’ Kalamkari is the work of a pen. A kalamkari can be described as an art form that involves drawing on fabric with your hands using a pen. You also need a brush and some natural dyes. Kalamkari art can be found mostly in Isfahan, Iran (Iran), as well as in India in the states Of Andhra Pradesh & Telangana. They use plant-based dyes and paints, and a bamboo brush that is naturally made. They also craft stunning motifs on the shawls which will last for generations.
History Of Kalamkari
Historical experts believe that the Kalamkari art dates back to 3000 B.C. Archaeologists have also found kalamkari patterns in fabric rags at Mohenjo Daro. In the 13th century, it is believed that a group artists traveled to India to teach Hindu mythology to students. They would use large canvas pieces with vegetable dyes and paints made from plant extracts to accomplish this. Kalamkari was first created. Later, Kalamkari was used for wall hangings that decorated temples and other sacred places for Hindus.
The art underwent more modifications and reached its peak in medieval Islamic rule (Golconda Nizams rule). The Mughal played an important role in the promotion of Kalamkari art. Kalamkars were the artisans who practiced Kalamari. This is how the name “Kalamkari” was born.
Kalamkari used to be called Pattachitra before this time. “Patta” meant ‘Cloth”, and “Chitra” meant ‘Picture”. Kalamkari’s Persian art was heavily influenced by Islamic rule. This was the time when this art form reached its peak.
Kalamkari Art Process
Before Kalamkari is completed, it takes 23 steps. The process is completed using specialized pens made from bamboo and organic paints and dyes. Kalamkari art prohibits the use of synthetic or chemical dyes. The labor involved in hand painting the textile is tedious, but it’s well worth the effort.
A shawl is first soaked in buffalo milk and astringent. The material is then sun-dried. The design can then be handcrafted in multiple stages, and not just one at a time. The bamboo or date palm stick pen is used primarily to create intricate and delicate details. To extract dyes, you can use various plants, seeds, leaves and even crushed flowers. These colours are often bright and vivid. A Kalamkari Shawl is often made from bright colours such as red, yellow, green and blue.
Styles For Wearing A Kalamkari Shawl
Kalamkari Shawls are intricate and have beautiful art on the base. They are best worn where the base is visible. Here are some styles you can wear a Pashmina Kalamkari Shawl
- It can be worn on the shoulders as a wrap. Then, bring the sides towards the front. The shawl’s pattern can be seen from both sides.
- The shawl can be worn as a dupatta, so the central patterns cover your front. It will give you a warm, elegant embrace.
- The shawl should be draped over one shoulder so that it shows off its entire length, from the front as well as the back.
- Allow the shawl to fall from your forearm like you’re not wearing it or plan to wear it later.
- You can also wrap the shawl around the body to show off this luxurious piece to all who see it.
Washing, Drying, Ironing, And Storing A Kalamkari Shawl
The Kalamkari Pashmina Shawl is delicate and should be washed with care. You should take great care when washing the Kalamkari Shawl. The colours of the Kalamkari shawl are natural and should not be damaged by vigorous washing. Kalamkari Shawls should not be left out in direct sunlight to prevent the colours from fading.
Washing: Kalamkari Shawls should be washed with Cashmere shampoos and Pashmina shampoos. Use lukewarm water to mix Pashmina shampoo and then soak your Kalamkari Shawl in it for thirty minutes. Gently squeeze the shawl between your fingers to remove any soap water after 30 minutes.
Drying: Don’t wring the Shawl. The shawl should be dried in shade and not in direct sun.
Ironing: A Kalamkari Shawl should not be ironed directly. A cotton cloth should be placed between the two, or a steam iron.
Storing: Keep the shawl dry and dry. To prevent infestations, keep mothballs nearby. Wrap the shawl with a muslin or paper wrap. Avoid using plastics at all cost.
Handwashing Kalamkari Pashminas is preferred to dry cleaning. Your shawl’s life expectancy will increase if you take good care of it.