Saree Guide
Bandhani Sarees: Gujarat's Tie-Dye Heritage
Bandhani (also spelled bandhej) is a hand tie-dye craft from Gujarat and Rajasthan in which artisans tie thousands of tiny points on fabric with thread before dyeing it. When the ties are opened, they leave behind constellations of small resist-dyed dots that form the saree's pattern — no two pieces are ever identical.
How is a Bandhani saree made?
The fabric is first marked with the intended design, then skilled artisans — traditionally women of the Khatri community — pinch and tie each point by hand using cotton thread. The tied fabric is dipped in dye, sometimes through several rounds for multi-colour designs. A single saree can carry thousands of hand-tied knots and take weeks to complete. The fineness of the dots and their evenness is what separates true handmade bandhani from printed imitations.
How do I know it's real bandhani?
Genuine hand-tied bandhani has slightly irregular, raised dots — you can often feel the pucker where each knot was tied, and the reverse side shows the dye penetration. Machine-printed 'bandhani-style' fabric has perfectly uniform, flat dots. At Aishwanee House, bandhani sarees are listed with their craft marked as handmade bandhani so you know exactly what you're getting.
When should I wear one?
Bandhani is deeply festive — it's a traditional favourite for weddings, Navratri and festive occasions across Gujarat and Rajasthan, and its bright, joyful patterning works beautifully for celebrations anywhere. Lighter bandhani in cotton or georgette also makes a striking everyday statement.
How do I care for a bandhani saree?
Dry clean the first few times, then gentle hand-wash separately in cold water if the fabric allows. Avoid wringing, dry in shade, and store wrapped in a soft cotton cloth away from direct sunlight to keep the colours vivid.