Rogan Kala- What is it?

Rogan Kala is a traditional art form practised in Kutch, Gujarat since over 300 years. It is said to have its origins in Persia.

It is a unique textile art form that artisans, especially the Khatri family, have kept alive. Rogan painting involves making a pigmented paste out of heated castor oil.

This thick paste is then applied onto the fabric using a stylus like tool, often without any kind of prior sketching. The artists paint half the side of a symmetrical motif and then press the fabric to create a mirror image onto the other half of the fabric.

Intricate patterns such a flowers, peacocks, tree of life all come alive at the hands of these skilled artists. What make each piece stand out is not only the visual richness, but the intense labour, patience and skills behind each piece. Historically, Rogan paintings have adorned wedding trousseaus and served as wall hangings, making them cultural as well as family heirlooms.

Unfortunately, given the laborious effort and time taken for each piece, they are losing market against machine made products. It is time we support such arts and crafts so we can preserve a living heritage and encourage an ancient craft. Each Rogan Kala piece carries with it stories of generations and a commitment to artistic excellence.

I am very interested in using technology and integrating it into the traditional process of Rogan Kala. We owe it to the coming generations to pass along such legacy and not let it perish due to our indifference or ignorance.