Ikat

India is the homeland of various fabrics and textiles with brightening shades and patterns and Ikat is one of them. Ikat is a handwoven fabric that is comfortable to wear in any season. The technique of fabricating Ikat (called Ikkat) has its roots from all across the globe, including South America, West Africa, and East Asia. Its name is derived from the Malay word “Mengikat” which means “to tie”. As per the pieces of evidence found in the 19th and 20th centuries, Asia began to produce high-quality Ikat textile approximately 2 centuries ago. 

It is believed by the textile experts that the art of fabricating Ikat has evolved in various corners of the world, namely, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, and the Philippines. Each of these countries contributed to add their own flavor into the fabric.

Ikat found its way to India during the ancient times when the country shared trade ties with China and Indonesia. There was a time in history when Indian-originated fine quality Ikat was accepted as a form currency on the famous Silk Route. The Indian Odishian style Ikat found in the Pharaoh’s tombs is the earliest living example of Ikat and the proof of time-hallowed trade between India and Egypt. 

It is a prominent handloom textile art in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, and Gujrat. With the growing years, these states have developed their own style of weaving Ikat. Each of them differs from one another based on the way the yarn is dyed, the pattern used, and its application.