Home / Arts and Entertainment / Artisan Families Revive India's Ancient Printing Traditions
Artisan Families Revive India's Ancient Printing Traditions
3 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Artisan families blend inheritance with innovation in Rajasthan's ancient crafts.
- Traditional Phad, Sanganeri, and Bagru printing adapt to modern markets.
- Exhibition showcases evolving folk art from December 4 to 8.
Rajasthan's Phad painting, Sanganeri block printing, and Bagru printing are experiencing a renaissance, driven by artisan families who are skillfully blending tradition with modern innovation. These ancient art forms are not merely being preserved but are being reimagined to fit contemporary lifestyles and global markets, ensuring their continued relevance and economic viability.
Phad painter Prakash Joshi exemplifies this evolution, transforming a historical family secret into a celebrated art form. His work, alongside efforts by the Dhanopia family in Sanganeri printing and Lal Chand Chhipa Derawala in Bagru printing, showcases adaptations that address sustainability and modern aesthetic demands. These artists have received national recognition for their contributions and dedication to passing on their skills.
These evolving crafts are currently on display at Monalisa Kalagram in Koregaon Park, Pune, as part of the Miraas exhibition. The event, running from December 4 to 8, features these artisans and many others, offering a unique opportunity to witness and engage with the vibrant heritage of Indian arts, crafts, and textiles.
