AJRAKH

Ajrakh, derived from the Persian words “Aaj Rakh” (meaning "keep it today"), is a unique resist block printing technique that originated in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The Khatris, who practice this technique, later migrated to Sindh in Pakistan and India. Ajrakh involves a minimum of 16 steps, with the cloth set aside to dry between each, hence the name. Traditional designs are inspired by the cosmos and star patterns, as the textile was made for desert pastoral communities. It is printed on both sides for durability and practicality, used as a turban, shawl, or cover. Today, the villages of Dhamadka and Ajrakhpur in Kutch, Gujarat, are key centers for Ajrakh block printing.