Ahmedabad’s Famous Saudagari Block Print Receives GI Tag

The Saudagari block print, a traditional craft practiced by artisans in Jamalpur, Ahmedabad, has been officially recognized with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This unique handcrafted textile art has been preserved for generations and continues to be a significant part of Gujarat’s cultural heritage.

The Legacy of Saudagari Block Printing

A 300-Year-Old Art Form

Saudagari block printing is an ancient textile printing technique that has been practiced in Ahmedabad for nearly 300 years. The art involves intricate designs hand-printed on fabric, using natural dyes and traditional methods.

Historically, this craft flourished in the Jamalpur area of Ahmedabad, where the Khida community was actively engaged in large-scale block printing. Over time, however, due to industrialization and modern technology, the craft began to decline.

The Process and Usage of Saudagari Block Print

The block prints are traditionally used in making kurtis, chunris, kurtas, dhotis, turbans, and shawls. The Chhipa community, known for their expertise in textile printing, has been instrumental in preserving and refining the art form.

The printing process involves:

• Hand-carved wooden blocks dipped in natural dyes.
• Intricate patterns transferred onto cotton fabric.
• Traditional motifs and floral designs unique to the region.

Keeping the Craft Alive: The Banglawala Family

Shakir Banglawala: A Guardian of Tradition

Among the artisans who have dedicated their lives to keeping this craft alive, Shakir Banglawala stands out. His family has been involved in Saudagari block printing for generations, ensuring the technique is passed down and adapted to modern trends.

Shakir acknowledges that industrialization posed a major challenge to traditional block printing. However, with efforts to revive the craft through innovation and new designs, the art has regained popularity, leading to its official GI tag recognition.

Irina Banglawala: A Young Artisan Taking Saudagari Block Print to New Heights

Shakir’s daughter, Irina Banglawala, has played a crucial role in promoting the craft on national and international levels. She was honored with the Young Artisan Category award for her contributions to Saudagari block printing.

She expressed joy over the GI tag, stating that the recognition has transformed their lives, bringing new opportunities for artisans. She has also introduced fashion innovations, such as block-printed dupattas costing up to ₹2,000, making the craft more appealing to modern customers.

Growing Interest Among Young Designers

The GI tag recognition has sparked interest among students and designers. Shreya Varjani, a student from GLS Institute of Design, shared her experience of integrating block printing into her coursework on accessories and jewelry. She and her peers are experimenting with combining printed textiles with jewelry designs, making the craft more versatile and contemporary.

The Impact of GI Tag Recognition

The GI tag has brought multiple benefits to the artisans and the craft:

• Boost in demand: Saudagari block print is now gaining popularity in both national and international markets.
• Financial upliftment: Artisans can now sell their handcrafted textiles at higher prices, ensuring better livelihoods.
• Cultural preservation: The GI tag ensures that traditional knowledge is recognized and protected.
• Increased awareness: The younger generation is now more inclined to learn and innovate within the craft.

Summary of the News

Aspect	Details
Why in News?	The Saudagari block print from Jamalpur, Ahmedabad, has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
What is Saudagari Block Print?	A 300-year-old handcrafting technique using block prints on fabric, done by the Chhipa community.
Significance of GI Tag	Recognizes the artistic and cultural value of the craft and provides economic benefits to artisans.
Key Artisans Involved	Shakir Banglawala and his family, especially Irina Banglawala, who received the Young Artisan Category award.
Fashion and Innovation	Block printing is now being used in jewelry and accessories, attracting young designers.
Impact on Artisans	Increased market value, global recognition, and a revival of interest in traditional textile arts.