Cityscope Team
Anokhi: A Block-Printed Paradise in the Heart of Pink City
Discover Anokhi - Jaipur's iconic brand revolutionizing Rajasthani block printing. Explore their museum, cafe, and stores while learning about sustainable fashion and traditional crafts.
From humble beginnings in a Jaipur haveli to a global sustainable fashion icon, discover how Anokhi has been revolutionizing Rajasthani block printing for over 50 years.
Table of Contents
1. The Anokhi Story
2. Museum: A Living Archive of Block Printing
3. Cafe: A Taste of Conscious Living
4. Shopping: Where Heritage Meets Modern Design
5. Location & Visiting Guide
The Anokhi Story
Tucked away in the bustling lanes of Jaipur lies a brand that has quietly revolutionized Rajasthan's textile heritage - Anokhi. But did you know that 'Anokhi' means 'unique' in Hindi? And unique it truly is!
Faith and John Singh, the founders of Anokhi, started their journey in the 1970s with a simple yet powerful vision - to preserve the dying art of hand block printing while creating sustainable livelihoods for local artisans. What began as a small workshop in a traditional haveli has today blossomed into a global phenomenon, showing the world how tradition and innovation can dance together in perfect harmony.
The Magic of Block Printing: A Legacy of Lords and Legends
According to local folklore, the art of block printing was a divine gift from Lord Krishna himself. Legend has it that he blessed a family of craftsmen with the knowledge of extracting colors from natural elements after being moved by their devotion. This family then spread the art throughout Rajasthan, creating a legacy that continues to this day.
Anokhi's Block Printing Process
Fun Fact: Some of the wooden blocks used in Anokhi's printing process are over 100 years old and are treated as family heirlooms by master craftsmen!
The traditional block printing communities, known as Chippa, trace their ancestry to the mythical sage Chitrasena, who is said to have learned the art of fabric decoration from celestial artists. The name 'Chippa' comes from the Sanskrit word 'chhapna', meaning to print.
Technical Mastery Behind Each Print
Block printing in Rajasthan isn't just a craft - it's a sophisticated art form that has evolved over five centuries. The process involves several intricate steps:
1. Khadi Preparation: Raw fabric is first treated with harda (myrobalan), which acts as a mordant to help colors bond with the fabric.
2. Block Carving: Master craftsmen carve intricate designs into teak or sheesham wood blocks (known as 'bunta').
3. Color Mixing: Natural dyes are prepared using:
(i) Indigo from the indigo plant
(ii) Red from madder root
(iii) Yellow from pomegranate rind
(iv) Black from iron horseshoes soaked in jaggery water
4. Printing Technique: The fabric is printed in layers:
(i) 'Rekh' (outline)
(ii) 'Gudh' (fill)
(iii) 'Miran' (fine details)
Today, Anokhi works with over 2000 artisans across Rajasthan, ensuring this heritage doesn't just survive but thrives. Their newest initiative, launched in 2023, focuses on training the next generation of artisans through a comprehensive apprenticeship program that has already enrolled 150 young craftspeople.
Museum: A Living Archive of Block Printing
The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing (AMHP)
The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing (AMHP), housed in a restored haveli in Amber, is where history comes alive. This 16th-century merchant's mansion carries its own fascinating tales. Local legends speak of hidden treasures within its walls, placed there by fleeing nobles during times of war. While no treasure was found during restoration, something equally valuable emerged - centuries-old block printing tools and textile fragments!
The building itself was literally falling apart when the Singhs discovered it in 1989. Faith Singh recalls how the local community initially thought them "paagal" (crazy) for taking on such a massive restoration project. The three-year restoration process became a beautiful blend of traditional architecture and modern conservation techniques:
1. Traditional lime plaster (choona) mixed with jaggery, guggal, and lentils for strength.
2. Ancient Rajasthani techniques of thikri (mirror work) used in restoration.
3. Original architectural elements preserved through documentation by local craftsmen.
4. Modern conservation methods integrated with traditional building practices.
This dedication earned them the UNESCO Award of Excellence for Cultural Heritage Conservation, making AMHP a testament to both textile heritage and architectural preservation.
Hidden Gems Inside AMHP
1. A rare collection of blocks dating back to the Mughal era.
2. Live demonstrations by master craftsmen.
3. Interactive workshops where you can try your hand at block printing.
4. A fascinating display showing how natural dyes are created from local plants and minerals.
Cafe: A Taste of Conscious Living
Anokhi Cafe, Jaipur
The Anokhi Cafe isn't just another pretty eatery - it's a philosophy served on a plate. Located in C-Scheme, this charming cafe was one of Jaipur's first establishments to embrace organic, locally-sourced ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes
1. The legendary carrot cake (a recipe unchanged since 1978!).
2. Fresh salads featuring ingredients from nearby organic farms.
3. Home-baked breads that have garnered a cult following.
4. Refreshing mint lemonade made with herbs from their kitchen garden.
Shopping: Where Heritage Meets Contemporary design
Anokhi KK Square Jaipur Store
Walking into an Anokhi store is like stepping into a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. Each piece tells a story - of the artisan who printed it, the tradition it carries forward, and the innovation it represents.
Local Shopping Tips
1. Visit during early morning hours to catch the best selection.
2. Ask about the specific block patterns - each has a fascinating history.
3. Look for their limited edition collections that often feature experimental techniques.
4. Don't miss their home furnishing section - it's a treasure trove of unique pieces.
Location & Visiting Guide
Anokhi Museum
Kheri Gate of AMHP
- Location: Kheri Gate, Amber
- Timings: 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
- Entry Fee: ₹100 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings during winter months
Anokhi Cafe
- Location: 2nd Floor, KK Square, C-Scheme
- Timings: 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM
- Must Book: Weekend brunches during peak season
Pro Tips
1. Combine your museum visit with a trip to Amber Fort.
2. Book a block printing workshop in advance.
3. Visit during the annual Anokhi exhibition (usually in February).
4. Take a guided tour to understand the intricate process of block printing.
The Sustainable Fashion Revolution: Leading India's Eco-Fashion Movement
Anokhi isn't just preserving tradition - it's at the forefront of India's sustainable fashion movement. As of 2024, they've achieved remarkable milestones:
Environmental Impact
1. Reduced water consumption by 40% through innovative dyeing techniques.
2. Saved over 500,000 liters of water annually through rainwater harvesting.
3. Achieved 70% solar power usage in their production facilities.
4. Implemented a zero-waste policy that recycles 95% of fabric scraps.
Social Impact (2023-24 Data)
1. Employs over 2000 artisans across 32 villages.
2. Women constitute 65% of their workforce.
3. Provides health insurance to all artisans and their families.
4. Runs 5 skill development centers training 300+ new artisans annually.
Innovation Meets Tradition
Their newest initiatives blend age-old wisdom with modern technology:
1. AI-powered design archive preserving 50,000+ traditional motifs.
2. Blockchain certification for authenticity of handcrafted pieces.
3. Collaboration with fashion tech startups for sustainable innovations.
4. Development of organic dyes that match synthetic color permanence.
Recent Recognition
1. Winner of the 2023 Sustainability Leadership Award.
2. Featured in Vogue India's "Future of Fashion" issue (January 2024).
3. Collaboration with international sustainable fashion platforms.
4. Partnership with UNESCO for craft preservation.
Their commitment to sustainable practices has made them a case study in business schools worldwide, proving that tradition and innovation can coexist profitably.
Cityscope Team
11th Feb 2025•7 mins read
Anokhi: A Block-Printed Paradise in the Heart of Pink City
Discover Anokhi - Jaipur's iconic brand revolutionizing Rajasthani block printing. Explore their museum, cafe, and stores while learning about sustainable fashion and traditional crafts.
From humble beginnings in a Jaipur haveli to a global sustainable fashion icon, discover how Anokhi has been revolutionizing Rajasthani block printing for over 50 years.
Table of Contents
1. The Anokhi Story
2. Museum: A Living Archive of Block Printing
3. Cafe: A Taste of Conscious Living
4. Shopping: Where Heritage Meets Modern Design
5. Location & Visiting Guide
The Anokhi Story
Tucked away in the bustling lanes of Jaipur lies a brand that has quietly revolutionized Rajasthan's textile heritage - Anokhi. But did you know that 'Anokhi' means 'unique' in Hindi? And unique it truly is!
Faith and John Singh, the founders of Anokhi, started their journey in the 1970s with a simple yet powerful vision - to preserve the dying art of hand block printing while creating sustainable livelihoods for local artisans. What began as a small workshop in a traditional haveli has today blossomed into a global phenomenon, showing the world how tradition and innovation can dance together in perfect harmony.
The Magic of Block Printing: A Legacy of Lords and Legends
According to local folklore, the art of block printing was a divine gift from Lord Krishna himself. Legend has it that he blessed a family of craftsmen with the knowledge of extracting colors from natural elements after being moved by their devotion. This family then spread the art throughout Rajasthan, creating a legacy that continues to this day.
Anokhi's Block Printing Process
Fun Fact: Some of the wooden blocks used in Anokhi's printing process are over 100 years old and are treated as family heirlooms by master craftsmen!
The traditional block printing communities, known as Chippa, trace their ancestry to the mythical sage Chitrasena, who is said to have learned the art of fabric decoration from celestial artists. The name 'Chippa' comes from the Sanskrit word 'chhapna', meaning to print.
Technical Mastery Behind Each Print
Block printing in Rajasthan isn't just a craft - it's a sophisticated art form that has evolved over five centuries. The process involves several intricate steps:
1. Khadi Preparation: Raw fabric is first treated with harda (myrobalan), which acts as a mordant to help colors bond with the fabric.
2. Block Carving: Master craftsmen carve intricate designs into teak or sheesham wood blocks (known as 'bunta').
3. Color Mixing: Natural dyes are prepared using:
(i) Indigo from the indigo plant
(ii) Red from madder root
(iii) Yellow from pomegranate rind
(iv) Black from iron horseshoes soaked in jaggery water
4. Printing Technique: The fabric is printed in layers:
(i) 'Rekh' (outline)
(ii) 'Gudh' (fill)
(iii) 'Miran' (fine details)
Today, Anokhi works with over 2000 artisans across Rajasthan, ensuring this heritage doesn't just survive but thrives. Their newest initiative, launched in 2023, focuses on training the next generation of artisans through a comprehensive apprenticeship program that has already enrolled 150 young craftspeople.
Museum: A Living Archive of Block Printing
The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing (AMHP)
The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing (AMHP), housed in a restored haveli in Amber, is where history comes alive. This 16th-century merchant's mansion carries its own fascinating tales. Local legends speak of hidden treasures within its walls, placed there by fleeing nobles during times of war. While no treasure was found during restoration, something equally valuable emerged - centuries-old block printing tools and textile fragments!
The building itself was literally falling apart when the Singhs discovered it in 1989. Faith Singh recalls how the local community initially thought them "paagal" (crazy) for taking on such a massive restoration project. The three-year restoration process became a beautiful blend of traditional architecture and modern conservation techniques:
1. Traditional lime plaster (choona) mixed with jaggery, guggal, and lentils for strength.
2. Ancient Rajasthani techniques of thikri (mirror work) used in restoration.
3. Original architectural elements preserved through documentation by local craftsmen.
4. Modern conservation methods integrated with traditional building practices.
This dedication earned them the UNESCO Award of Excellence for Cultural Heritage Conservation, making AMHP a testament to both textile heritage and architectural preservation.
Hidden Gems Inside AMHP
1. A rare collection of blocks dating back to the Mughal era.
2. Live demonstrations by master craftsmen.
3. Interactive workshops where you can try your hand at block printing.
4. A fascinating display showing how natural dyes are created from local plants and minerals.
Cafe: A Taste of Conscious Living
Anokhi Cafe, Jaipur
The Anokhi Cafe isn't just another pretty eatery - it's a philosophy served on a plate. Located in C-Scheme, this charming cafe was one of Jaipur's first establishments to embrace organic, locally-sourced ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes
1. The legendary carrot cake (a recipe unchanged since 1978!).
2. Fresh salads featuring ingredients from nearby organic farms.
3. Home-baked breads that have garnered a cult following.
4. Refreshing mint lemonade made with herbs from their kitchen garden.
Shopping: Where Heritage Meets Contemporary design
Anokhi KK Square Jaipur Store
Walking into an Anokhi store is like stepping into a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. Each piece tells a story - of the artisan who printed it, the tradition it carries forward, and the innovation it represents.
Local Shopping Tips
1. Visit during early morning hours to catch the best selection.
2. Ask about the specific block patterns - each has a fascinating history.
3. Look for their limited edition collections that often feature experimental techniques.
4. Don't miss their home furnishing section - it's a treasure trove of unique pieces.
Location & Visiting Guide
Anokhi Museum
Kheri Gate of AMHP
- Location: Kheri Gate, Amber
- Timings: 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
- Entry Fee: ₹100 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings during winter months
Anokhi Cafe
- Location: 2nd Floor, KK Square, C-Scheme
- Timings: 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM
- Must Book: Weekend brunches during peak season
Pro Tips
1. Combine your museum visit with a trip to Amber Fort.
2. Book a block printing workshop in advance.
3. Visit during the annual Anokhi exhibition (usually in February).
4. Take a guided tour to understand the intricate process of block printing.
The Sustainable Fashion Revolution: Leading India's Eco-Fashion Movement
Anokhi isn't just preserving tradition - it's at the forefront of India's sustainable fashion movement. As of 2024, they've achieved remarkable milestones:
Environmental Impact
1. Reduced water consumption by 40% through innovative dyeing techniques.
2. Saved over 500,000 liters of water annually through rainwater harvesting.
3. Achieved 70% solar power usage in their production facilities.
4. Implemented a zero-waste policy that recycles 95% of fabric scraps.
Social Impact (2023-24 Data)
1. Employs over 2000 artisans across 32 villages.
2. Women constitute 65% of their workforce.
3. Provides health insurance to all artisans and their families.
4. Runs 5 skill development centers training 300+ new artisans annually.
Innovation Meets Tradition
Their newest initiatives blend age-old wisdom with modern technology:
1. AI-powered design archive preserving 50,000+ traditional motifs.
2. Blockchain certification for authenticity of handcrafted pieces.
3. Collaboration with fashion tech startups for sustainable innovations.
4. Development of organic dyes that match synthetic color permanence.
Recent Recognition
1. Winner of the 2023 Sustainability Leadership Award.
2. Featured in Vogue India's "Future of Fashion" issue (January 2024).
3. Collaboration with international sustainable fashion platforms.
4. Partnership with UNESCO for craft preservation.
Their commitment to sustainable practices has made them a case study in business schools worldwide, proving that tradition and innovation can coexist profitably.