Kalamkari originated in Persia (present day Iran) from word "Qalamkari" where qalam meant pen and kari meant craftwork. The art came to India through Mughals and practiced widely in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Authentic Kalamkari is 100% organic, meaning the art is done on Organic cotton or silk using charcoal sticks, tamarind twigs for drawing and natural dyes from flowers, fruits and vegetables to color.
The art form takes about 23 steps including bleaching, softening the fabric and drying to prepare the fabric. Preparing the natural dyes and pigments, drawing and applying colors. Washing in between applications.
Two styles of this traditional art form are in use
1. Masulipatnam - The fabric is dyed and wooden Kalamkari blocks are used on the outline
2. Srikalahasti - The hand made paintings are applied directly to the fabric and known as Pen Kalamkari
