History of the Craft – Leheriya Tie & Dye
Leheriya, derived from the Hindi word "leher," meaning "wave," is a traditional tie-dye technique practiced in Rajasthan, India. The craft dates back centuries and is closely associated with Rajasthan's vibrant festivals and royal heritage. This technique creates wave-like patterns on fabric, symbolizing the flowing rivers and rolling dunes of Rajasthan. Traditionally, Leheriya is worn during festive occasions like Teej, Raksha Bandhan, and Diwali.
Leheriya tie-dye involves folding the fabric diagonally and binding it with thread at various intervals before dyeing it. Once the fabric is dyed, the threads are removed, revealing beautiful diagonal waves in alternating colors. The process is often repeated with different colors to create multicolored patterns. This labor-intensive technique requires precision and expertise, making each Leheriya dupatta a work of art.
At iTokri, our collection of Leheriya dupattas showcases the rich tradition of Rajasthan, offering pieces that are not only visually stunning but also deeply rooted in cultural significance. Each dupatta is handcrafted by artisans like Ahmed Badshah Miyan, a master craftsman from Jaipur, known for his exceptional skills in Leheriya Tie & Dye. Our dupattas feature bold, vibrant colors and are made using natural dyes, keeping the craft eco-friendly and sustainable.
History of the Main Product and Sub-Categories at iTokri
The dupatta is an integral part of Indian fashion, often used to complement traditional outfits like salwar kameez, lehengas, and sarees. Over time, it has become a versatile accessory that can be styled with both ethnic and contemporary attire. The Leheriya dupatta adds a festive flair to any outfit, with its colorful waves and intricate tie-dye technique.
At iTokri, we offer a diverse range of dupattas, each reflecting the craftsmanship of different Indian regions. Here are some of the sub-categories of dupattas available at iTokri:
Ajrakh Block Prints Dupattas – Known for their intricate geometric patterns, crafted using natural dyes.
Sanganeri Printed Dupattas – Floral motifs and vibrant colors from Rajasthan.
Bandhani Tie-Dye Dupattas – Another popular tie-dye technique featuring tiny knots and patterns, symbolic of Indian festivities.
Kalamkari Handpainted Dupattas – Featuring hand-painted designs that tell stories of mythology and folklore.
Batik Printing Dupattas – Earthy tones and natural dyes, block printed by artisans from Rajasthan.
Leheriya Tie-Dye Dupattas – Known for their wave-like patterns and bright colors, a traditional tie-dye from Rajastha
These sub-categories allow iTokri customers to explore the vast range of Indian crafts, with each dupatta carrying a piece of its region’s cultural legacy.
Other Leheriya Products at iTokri
While Leheriya dupattas are the most popular item in this category, the Leheriya technique is used to create a variety of other products at iTokri. Our collection includes Leheriya sarees, stoles, and fabrics, allowing customers to experience the full beauty of this craft.
Leheriya sarees are a favorite for festive occasions, where the vibrant colors and fluid wave patterns add elegance and grace to traditional attire. These sarees are available in a range of fabrics, including silk and cotton, making them suitable for different seasons and events.
For those who prefer custom-made outfits, Leheriya fabrics provide endless possibilities. Whether you’re designing a kurta, blouse, or dress, these fabrics bring a touch of Rajasthan’s craftsmanship into your wardrobe. Leheriya stoles, on the other hand, offer a more subtle way to incorporate this craft into your everyday outfits, with their lightweight fabric and multicolored designs.
At iTokri, we offer not only Leheriya products but also a curated selection of related crafts such as Bandhani, Ajrakh block printing, and Bagru printing, allowing customers to explore a variety of traditional Indian textiles.
Other Primary Product Categories at iTokri
Beyond dupattas and Leheriya textiles, iTokri offers an extensive range of handcrafted products that highlight the diversity and richness of Indian craftsmanship. Here are some of the main product categories available at iTokri:
Women’s clothing and accessories: This includes a wide variety of sarees, kurtas, stitched suits, skirts, and dresses. Each piece is handcrafted and represents traditional crafts such as block printing, embroidery, and hand weaving.
Fabrics and dress materials: Ideal for those who love tailoring their own outfits, our fabric collection features handloom fabrics, batik prints, hand block prints, and Kalamkari designs.
Men’s wear: We offer a curated range of handwoven kurtas, shirts, and accessories for men, each showcasing India’s diverse textile traditions.
Home & Décor: Our home decor section offers an assortment of products, from bed covers to cushion covers, all handmade with traditional techniques. Add an authentic touch to your living spaces with our artisan-crafted pieces.
Jewellery & Accessories: Our jewelry collection features unique, handmade pieces created by local artisans. This includes necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and more.
Bags & Stationery: Explore our range of eco-friendly bags and handcrafted stationery, perfect for gifting or personal use.
With such a wide variety of products, iTokri makes it easy for customers to find everything they need, from fashion to home decor, all while supporting traditional Indian crafts.
Why Choose iTokri for Shopping Crafts?
Since 2012, iTokri has been dedicated to preserving India’s artisanal heritage by providing a platform for artisans to showcase their work to a global audience. Our commitment to fair trade and sustainable practices ensures that every purchase supports local artisans while promoting eco-friendly products.
iTokri’s customer service goes beyond transactions—we foster a personal connection with each customer, reflected in our eco-friendly packaging, handwritten notes, and thoughtful touches with every order. Our policies on Returns & Cancellations, Shipping, Payments, and International Orders ensure a smooth and transparent shopping experience.
By choosing iTokri, you join a community of like-minded individuals who believe in fair trade, ethical sourcing, and the importance of preserving cultural crafts. To learn more about our values, artisans, or policies, explore our ARTISANS, CRAFTS OF INDIA, and ETHICAL TRADE pages. Connect with us via Blog, Social Reviews, or get in touch with our team through the Contact Us page.
Explore our collection today and bring home a piece of India’s rich artisanal heritage!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Leheriya Tie-dye Dupattas
1. What is a Leheriya Dupatta?
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- A Leheriya Dupatta is a traditional Indian scarf that features wave-like patterns created using the tie-dye technique. This craft originated in Rajasthan and is known for its vibrant, multicolored designs, often worn during festivals and celebrations.
2. How is Leheriya tie-dye done?
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Leheriya tie-dye involves folding the fabric diagonally and binding it with thread at various intervals before dyeing it. Once dyed, the threads are removed to reveal beautiful diagonal waves in alternating colors. This process is often repeated with different colors for a multicolored effect.
3. What materials are used in Leheriya dupattas?
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Leheriya dupattas are made from various natural fabrics, such as cotton, silk, and mulmul. Cotton Leheriya dupattas are light and breathable, while silk Leheriya dupattas offer a more luxurious, elegant feel.
4. Where can I buy authentic Leheriya dupattas online?
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- You can buy authentic Leheriya dupattas online at iTokri. Our collection features handcrafted pieces made by skilled artisans from Rajasthan, ensuring the authenticity and quality of every piece.
5. How do I care for a Leheriya dupatta?
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- To preserve the vibrant colors and patterns, hand wash your Leheriya dupatta in cold water with mild detergent. Avoid direct sunlight while drying, as this may cause fading. Air drying in the shade is the best way to maintain the natural dyes and fabric quality.
6. Can Leheriya dupattas be worn for special occasions?
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- Yes! Leheriya dupattas are perfect for both casual and special occasions. Their bright colors and intricate patterns make them ideal for festivals, weddings, and cultural events, while also adding elegance to everyday outfits.
7. Are Leheriya dupattas eco-friendly?
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- Yes, Leheriya dupattas are made using natural dyes and eco-friendly processes. The tie-dye technique uses minimal chemicals, making it a sustainable choice for those who prefer environmentally friendly fashion.
8. How is Leheriya different from Bandhani tie-dye?
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- While both Leheriya and Bandhani are traditional tie-dye techniques from Rajasthan, Leheriya features wave-like patterns, whereas Bandhani creates dotted designs through intricate knotting. Leheriya patterns are more fluid, while Bandhani is known for its small, detailed motifs.
9. Can I get Leheriya dupattas with embellishments?
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- Yes, at iTokri, we offer Leheriya dupattas with gota patti or zari borders, adding a touch of elegance for special occasions. These embellished dupattas are perfect for weddings or festive events.
10. Why should I buy Leheriya dupattas from iTokri?
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- iTokri offers a curated selection of Leheriya dupattas, sourced directly from artisans in Rajasthan. We are committed to promoting sustainable, fair trade practices, ensuring that your purchase supports local communities while offering you authentic, high-quality handcrafted products.