What is Kalamkari Print? History, Types & Styling Tips | Vasanam India
â–¶ Introduction
Kalamkari is one of India’s oldest textile art forms, with a history stretching back over 3,000 years. The word ‘Kalamkari’ comes from two Persian words — ‘kalam’ (pen) and ‘kari’ (work), meaning artwork done with a pen. Today, Kalamkari print sarees are among the most searched and loved ethnic wear across India, combining ancient tradition with everyday elegance.
At Vasanam India, we celebrate this art through our handcrafted Kalamkari silk and cotton saree collection.
â–¶ History of Kalamkari
Kalamkari originated in the Golconda Sultanate region of Andhra Pradesh, where artisans used bamboo pens dipped in natural dyes to hand-paint stories from Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana on cloth. The temples of Srikalahasti became famous for this art, and the technique was later patronised by the Mughals and the Vijayanagara Empire.
Over centuries, two distinct styles emerged — the Srikalahasti style (completely hand-drawn) and the Machilipatnam style (block printed). Both are UNESCO-recognised traditional crafts.
â–¶ Types of Kalamkari Print
1. Pen Kalamkari (Srikalahasti Style): Every motif is individually drawn by hand using a bamboo pen. No two sarees are identical. Features nature scenes, mythological figures, and temple motifs.
2. Block Kalamkari (Machilipatnam Style): Hand-carved wooden blocks are used to stamp patterns onto fabric. Faster to produce but equally beautiful. Geometric patterns, floral designs, and peacock motifs are common.
Vasanam India offers both — our Kalamkari silk sarees feature divine goddess motifs, while our Kalamkari cotton sarees showcase elephant, nature, and rangoli patterns.
â–¶ Common Kalamkari Motifs
• Elephant motifs — symbol of royalty and strength
• Peacock motifs — grace and beauty
• Lotus and floral patterns — purity and femininity
• Goddess and temple imagery — devotion and tradition
• Nature scenes — trees, birds, rivers
• Geometric patterns — contemporary fusion
Our Elephant Kalamkari Cotton Blue Saree and Sacred Goddess Kalamkari Silk Saree are bestsellers from Vasanam India.
â–¶ How to Style a Kalamkari Saree
1. For Festivals: Pair a Kalamkari silk saree with a contrasting silk blouse and gold jhumkas. A bun with a flower garland completes the traditional look.
2. For Office Wear: Choose a Kalamkari cotton saree in earthy tones. A plain cotton blouse and minimal jewellery make it office-appropriate.
3. For Casual Outings: A Cotton Kalamkari saree with a crop top blouse and kolhapuri sandals works beautifully.
4. For Weddings: Go with a Kalamkari silk saree in deep colours like red, navy, or off-white, paired with heavy gold jewellery.
â–¶ How to Care for Kalamkari Sarees
• Always dry clean or hand wash gently in cold water
• Do not wring or machine wash
• Air dry in shade — direct sunlight can fade natural dyes
• Store folded in a muslin cloth, not in plastic bags
• Light ironing on reverse side only
â–¶ Why Buy from Vasanam India?
At Vasanam India, every Kalamkari saree is carefully sourced from skilled artisans. We offer:
✓ Authentic Kalamkari print on premium silk and cotton
✓ Free shipping across India
✓ Starting at just ₹1,449 for cotton and ₹2,249 for silk
✓ Use code SUMMER15 for 15% off prepaid orders
✓ 5-star rated by our customers