Weaving mythology

Immerse yourself in history as you wrap yourself up in the Ramayana (Hindu mythology) or rest your weary head on these exquisite Baluchari weave cushion covers and dream of the Mahabharat (Hindu mythology). The ancient Baluchari weave technique from  West Bengal (India) which was traditionally done on saris, has moved to home accessories like cushion covers for the first time. Intricate motifs of mythology and temple carvings, depictions of the epics, courtly life and even traditional texts are woven onto the fabric creating an enchanting story.

The Baluchari technique has had its highs and lows. It first rose to prominence when it was practiced in the Baluchar village in Bengal two hundred years ago, and then disappeared into obscurity during the British rule over India. In the first half of the twentieth century the craft was revived again in the historical village of Bishnupur (Bengal) and has continued to thrive over the years.    

Each piece of Baluchari work is priceless. Each item goes through several stages of work till finally a unique, one-of-a-kind product is ready. The yarn is boiled in a solution of soda and soap and dyed to add sheen and lustre. The motifs are made by drawing the design on graph paper, it is colored and the punching is done using cards. These cards are then put in sequence and attached to the jacquard loom. These cards control the warp on the loom and create beautiful patterns on silk.