In the late 1970s, Bengaluru was a thriving hub of block printing, renowned for its vibrant, multicoloured block-printed silk sarees. These sarees were a staple in local wardrobes and gained fame through the many yesteryear actresses who wore them with pride. As Krishna, one of our block printers, tells it, the story of block printing in Bengaluru is a tale of artistry, challenges, and resilience.
A Teenage Block Printer's Journey
Krishna began his journey in the block printing industry as a teenager, working in a factory owned by Mahalingam. This bustling factory was one of more than two dozen printing units in the city, each providing livelihood to thousands of skilled workers. The heart of the factory's success was the exquisite blocks, meticulously crafted from Sheesham wood by a Muslim gentleman known affectionately as "Achcha Bhai." His designs were so exceptional that clients eagerly awaited his visits from Farukabad, where he arrived by train with a trunk full of these cherished blocks.
Rise and Fall of a Vibrant Industry
The block-printed sarees from these factories were so famous that retailers in the Chickpet area saw booming business. However, this success caught the attention of the IT department, leading to raids on many stores. The aftermath was a sharp decline in demand for printed sarees, severely impacting the factories. Mahalingam's unit, like many others, faced financial struggles, leading to loan defaults and eventually seizure by the bank.
In a tragic turn, the invaluable blocks were auctioned off, their true worth unrecognized by the bank officers. Driven by desperation, some factory workers salvaged a few blocks while the rest found their way to smaller factories. The government's environmental concerns led to further shutdowns, and the industry faced challenges adapting to new regulations.
The Blocks' Journey to Revival
Atul Sait, a factory owner in the Adugodi area, bought many of the complex blocks, hoping to preserve the tradition. Yet, the rise of screen printing and fierce competition led to his factory's closure. Krishna's cousin, Loknath, purchased these blocks and started a new unit in Bommanahalli, but the art was waning.
A few years ago, as Loknath settled abroad, one of his workers acquired all the blocks, setting up a unit in Begur. Unfortunately, natural calamities struck, and the blocks were nearly lost to history. That was when Krishna stepped in, purchasing and restoring these blocks, determined to keep the tradition alive.
Embracing the Legacy in a Modern Craft-Based Business
Today, once deemed out of fashion, these blocks are resurgent. As a small craft-based e-commerce business owner, I am proud to utilize these restored blocks in our collections. Each design tells a story of perseverance and dedication to preserving our rich cultural heritage.
By embracing these traditional crafts, we honour the legacy of artisans like Krishna and offer our customers a piece of history crafted with love and care. This journey of Bengaluru's block printing is a testament to the enduring spirit of craftsmanship and the beauty of handmade products.
