Originally an exclusive art work of Andhra Pradesh, the “Kalamkari” industries of the state rose to international fame because of its exquisite patterns on a colored piece of cloth. The “Kalamkari” industries owed its name to the art form that was expressed with the help of “Pen” or “Kalam”. The artists uses a pen to draw beautiful designs on colored piece of cloth and later on fills those designs with natural vegetable dyes to make it look very attractive.
The districts of Machilipatnam and Srikalahasti specializes in this exquisite art form. The traditional Kalamkari art of the state has a long history that points out to the rich cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh. The relics of this “Kalamkari” art form can be found in the historical sites of the Harappan civilization and in the Buddhist Chaitya Viharas. The artists of this rare and unique form of the “Kalamkari” art found its inspiration in the beautiful wall paintings of the temples of the south.
The artists of the “Kalamkari” industry gave expression to the spiritual and supernatural fables of the ancient times on a colorful piece of cloth. The wall hangings, table cloths and other decorative items of the Kalamkari art has an internationally acclaimed market that helps the state to earn a large chunk of revenue.
The traditional handicraft industry of the “Kalamkari” art work of Andhra Pradesh is one of the most vibrant and ever growing industry of the state. The industry supports a huge population of the economically backward classes of the people of Andhra Pradesh. The Kalamkari industry is one of the oldest handicrafts industry of the region which reflects the artistic skills and the creative imagination of the local people of the state.
