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When we think of sustainability in fashion, we often picture organic cotton, slow fashion, or thrifted wardrobes. But there's one silent hero that’s been doing it all - naturally, beautifully, and mindfully - for centuries: Dabu handblock printing.
Rooted in the rustic villages of Rajasthan, Dabu printing is more than just a technique - it's a heritage. And like many traditional crafts, it’s at risk of fading away. At NRITARA, we believe that preserving this art form is not just about aesthetics - it’s about honoring people, planet, and a legacy that tells a story with every block and every print.
Dabu (pronounced ‘da-boo’) is an ancient mud-resist handblock printing technique that dates back to the 8th century. The name "Dabu" comes from the Hindi word 'dabaana’, meaning "to press." True to its name, the technique involves pressing natural, eco-friendly dyes and resist paste onto fabric using intricately carved wooden blocks.
Here’s how the magic happens:
The Resist Paste: A mixture of mud, gum, and chuna (lime) is hand-applied on areas of the fabric that should resist dye.
Sprinkling Sawdust: This helps the paste dry and stay intact.
Natural Dyeing: The cloth is then dipped in vats of natural indigo or vegetable dyes.
Washing & Drying: The fabric is washed, revealing a stunning contrast of print and base color.
Each piece tells a story of patience and perfection, passed down through generations.
The fashion world is waking up to its environmental impact, and Dabu printing has quietly been sustainable all along. Here’s how:
Eco-Friendly Dyes: Traditional Dabu uses natural dyes like indigo, pomegranate rind, or turmeric - no harmful chemicals involved.
Zero Waste Craft: Artisans reuse water, minimize textile waste, and keep their processes circular.
Slow, Mindful Production: Every yard is hand-printed with care. No machines. No mass production. Just pure, thoughtful artistry.
Biodegradable Materials: Cotton and other natural fabrics are used, making the final product earth-friendly.
In a world of fast fashion, Dabu stands as a gentle, grounded reminder of how fashion can coexist with nature.
At NRITARA, we work directly with artisan clusters in Rajasthan who have been practicing handblock printing for generations. We’re proud to say:
We use AZO-free, skin-friendly dyes and source only natural fabrics like cotton and mul.
We ensure fair wages and safe working conditions for our artisans.
We support skill development, especially for the younger generation, to keep this art alive.
Every piece is produced in small batches to avoid waste and maintain quality.
This is not just about creating garments - it’s about creating impact.
Here’s the reality: Traditional handcrafts like Dabu are disappearing. As machine-made alternatives flood the market, younger artisans are leaving their craft in search of better-paying jobs.
By choosing Dabu, you’re not just wearing a beautiful print. You’re:
Preserving heritage
Empowering rural communities
Promoting slow, ethical fashion
Contributing to a greener planet
Every purchase is a vote - for the kind of world and wardrobe we want to live in.
Wondering how you can be a part of this journey? It’s simple:
Shop consciously: Choose brands (like NRITARA 😉) that are committed to ethical, artisan-led production.
Ask questions: Know where your clothes come from. Who made them? How were they made?
Spread the word: The more people know about Dabu and other handblock techniques, the better the chances of preserving them.
Dabu isn’t just a print - it’s a voice. A voice of the soil, the hands, and the heart.
At NRITARA, every Dabu piece is a tribute to this incredible art form. When you wear one, you're not just making a fashion statement - you’re becoming part of a bigger story. A story of sustainable fashion, handcrafted beauty, and a legacy worth preserving. Let’s keep the tradition alive - one block at a time.
Let’s keep this story going.
Let’s keep the blocks printing.