Ikat print: Here's how this 1000 year old handloom from Odisha is now ruling the western fashion

The binding technique print better known as Ikat is currently ruling the fashion world. There are numerous Western apparels that feature this colourful print and offer a bold and stunning look. But this print has a 1000-year-old history not just from India, but around 30 other countries have their own history and technique of forming Ikat print.

Recently, this print has been seen on pants, tops, and dresses with various high-end fashion brands launching Ikat collection for people with a knack for fine work fabric and handloom.

Here are some important key points about the history of Ikat

Well, if the scholars are to be believed then Ikat weaving in India dates back to the 12th century CE. But as we said earlier that this print's history is not just restricted to India.

Let's know more about where it came from and how it managed to go so far.

Ikat weaving basically means to tie or bind and it is derived from the Indonesian word mengikat. This fine printing technique was found in places around Central, South and Southeast Asia, and South America.

Getting back to the Indian history of this print, Ikat was earlier used for religious activities and was mainly made in Odisha, Telangana and Gujarat.

Ikat played a massive role in the handloom revival in India and it was known to represent a person's cultural and textile taste.

This print was majorly worn at that time by artists, journalists, left-wing intellectuals, and the people who were colloquially called 'jholawallahs'.

Also Watch: Sari: From being humble drape to becoming the new cool, here's how this attire evolved over time

During the post-Independence era, personalities like late-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, her best friend Pupul Jayakar, and others used to wear this print.

And now, with its global reach and a Western touch, celebrities like Tara Sutaria, Shilpa Shetty, and Bhumi Pednekar, among others are seen flaunting the Ikat Western clothing with their style and grace.

Also Watch: Onam in Kerala is giving a boost to handloom fashion