Madhya Pradeshs Bag Print Art to Shine at International Fair in Paris

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Narendra Jijhontiya

Madhya Pradeshs Bag Print Art to Shine at International Fair in Paris

Bhopal, April 27: Under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, Madhya Pradesh is making significant strides to promote traditional handicrafts and local art on both national and international platforms. In this context, the unique ‘Bag Print’ art of the state will be showcased at the prestigious “Foire de Paris” fair in the capital of France. The event will take place from April 30 to May 11 at the Porte de Versailles exhibition center in Paris.

Among the five top artisans selected from across the country by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) of the Ministry of Textiles, National Award-winning artisan Mohammad Bilal Khatri will represent the state. He will participate as a master craftsman, showcasing the ‘Bag Print’ art. This handicraft is protected under Geographical Indication (GI).

At this international fair, Bilal Khatri will perform live demonstrations of ‘Bag Print’ art. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness the intricate artworks emerging on fabrics using traditional natural dyes, carved wooden blocks, and handmade techniques. This event will provide a unique insight into the depth and beauty of Indian handicrafts.

The designs prepared for this special exhibition blend Indian traditional craftsmanship with modern global aesthetics. These creations, tailored to suit European market preferences, will give ‘Bag Print’ a new international identity.

‘Bag Print’ is a traditional hand block printing art from the Bag region in Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh. Bag is a small tribal town inhabited by the Bhil and Bhilala communities, and it is also home to ancient tiger caves. The tradition of this art is believed to have been established by the Khatri community, who migrated from the Larkana region of Sindh around 400 years ago.

In this craft, cotton and silk fabrics are prepared using traditional natural processes. A mixture of iron corrosion, dhavadi flowers, and myrobalan, along with alum and alizarin, is utilized. Skilled artisans create designs using wooden blocks, which are then filled by hand. The finished fabrics are washed in flowing water and sun-dried, giving them a distinctive finish. The ‘Bag Print’ features prominent geometric and floral patterns in red and black.

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