What traditional textile crafts are being preserved in Lucknow?

Rangrez (dyeing) and rafugari (embroidery and textile repairing) are the two ancient crafts that Lucknow's artisans are working to preserve.

What challenges do Lucknow's textile artisans face in maintaining their crafts?

Lucknow's textile artisans struggle against the rise of cheap synthetic dyes and machine-made textiles, which threaten to overshadow their traditional, labor-intensive techniques.

Home / Lifestyle / Lucknow's Artisans Weave Resilience: Preserving Centuries-Old Textile Traditions

Lucknow's Artisans Weave Resilience: Preserving Centuries-Old Textile Traditions

Q: How are Lucknow's rangrez using natural dyes to create vibrant fabrics?

Lucknow's rangrez, like Abdul Rahim, use dyes derived from plants, minerals, and other organic sources to imbue fabrics with rich, lasting colors.

8 Nov

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Summary

Rangrez (dyers) and rafugari (embroiderers) in Lucknow keep ancient crafts alive
Natural dyes from plants, minerals used to create vibrant hues for fabrics
Artisans struggle against cheap synthetic dyes and machine-made textiles

Lucknow's Artisans Weave Resilience: Preserving Centuries-Old Textile Traditions

As of November 8th, 2025, in the historic city of Lucknow, a battle to preserve centuries-old textile traditions is unfolding. The ancient crafts of rangrez (dyeing) and rafugari (embroidery and textile repairing) are holding onto their charm, keeping alive the soul of Lucknow's rich heritage.

In the bustling Dandaiya market, master rangrez Abdul Rahim uses natural dyes derived from plants, minerals, and other organic sources to imbue fabrics with vibrant hues. His ancestors have been part of this lineage for generations, weaving color into India's textile tapestry. However, the rangrez community now faces a significant challenge from cheap synthetic dyes that have flooded the market, lasting longer and costing less.