Machilipatnam, a town in Andhra Pradesh, India, boasts a unique and beautiful art form - Kalamkari block printing. Unlike other Kalamkari techniques that rely on hand-painting with a pen, Machilipatnam uses carved wooden blocks to create intricate designs on fabric. This meticulous art form, practiced mainly in the nearby village of Pedana, has been passed down through generations, and its rich heritage is evident in every vibrant block-printed creation. 

As a third-generation artisan of Kalamkari block printing, Varun's journey is a continuation of his family's heritage, dating back to the 1970s when his grandfather embarked on a remarkable venture. In the face of adversity and competition, Varun's grandfather remained steadfast in his commitment to quality and authenticity. Shifting from handloom weaving to Kalamkari block printing, he embraced natural dyes and meticulous techniques, laying the foundation for a legacy of high quality and authenticity that continues to thrive today. 

The legacy of Pedana Kalamkari finds echoes in distant lands, with motifs reminiscent of those found in Isfahan, a testament to the age-old trade and cultural exchanges between nations. Varun muses on the parallels between Pedana and Isfahan, pondering whether they inspired each other or were merely reflections of a shared artistic consciousness. 

Varun highlights that what sets Kalamkari block print apart is its distinct patterns and dyes. "The motifs found in Kalamkari block prints draw inspiration from nature and temple stone carvings," Varun elaborates. "As for the dyes, they are sourced entirely from natural origins.” 

To us, the earthy hues of Pedana Kalamkari fabric reflect the diverse landscapes that inspire them. Blue, extracted from the indigo plant, represents the vast expanse of the sky and the depths of the ocean. Yellow, derived from the Harada (Myrobalan) plant, radiates warmth, reminiscent of sun-kissed fields. Green, a blend of yellow and indigo, echoes the lushness of forests. Red, the colour of vitality, is derived from the madder plant, infusing the fabric with potent intensity. Brown, extracted from Kattha (Catechu) heartwood, reflects the earthy tones of the soil, adding rootedness to the design. Mustard, derived from dried pomegranate seeds, adds a subtle hue akin to the golden rays of dawn. Similarly, other colours are derived from other natural sources. The result is a stunning array of earthy colours adorning cotton textiles, transforming them into sarees, bedsheets, wall hangings, and more. 

Varun believes that nature is not just a source of inspiration but a partner in creation and an endless source of colour inspiration.