Hand Block – Printing of Pali, Rajasthan

This is done in the Marwar region, an important centre for textile printing and dyeing. Practitioners of this craft are also found in Pali, Rajasthan. It is situated on the main highway for trade and industry. The brackish water of the river Luni flowing by the side of the town is specially suited for dyeing. The colours used for the printing are mainly dark and lustrous with prevalence of flower motifs. The belief here in the desert is that dark colours are cool and protect one from the scorching sunlight. The craft has lost some of its importance now due to closure of many printing and dyeing units.