Sunday 27 September, 3 - 4 p.m.: Talk, Threads of Tradition: The Living Art of Bandhani by Abdullah Khatri - SIDR Craft

Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, 4A Castletown Rd, London W14 9HE, UK

Abdullah Khatri is a textile artist and co-founder of SIDR Craft, an artisan-led organisation based in Bhuj, Kutch, dedicated to preserving and evolving the traditional art of Bandhani. Growing up in a Khatri family with deep ties to tie-dyeing, Abdullah learned the craft from an early age, inspired by the intricate process of transforming cloth through knotting and colour.

Founded in 1992, SIDR Craft works with hundreds of women artisans across Kutch, supporting home-based craft practices and creating opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. The organisation is known for its exceptional Bandhani and clamp-dyed textiles, combining traditional techniques with contemporary design approaches. Through collaborations, exhibitions and international projects, Abdullah continues to champion the cultural significance and creative potential of this historic textile tradition.

Event Description

In this talk, Abdullah Khatri will introduce audiences to the history, techniques and symbolism of Bandhani, an ancient Gujarati tie-dye tradition meaning “to tie up”. Developed over generations within Kutch communities, Bandhani is created by carefully pinching and tying thousands of tiny sections of cloth before dyeing, revealing intricate patterns, textures and layers of colour.

Abdullah will explore the complete process behind SIDR Craft’s textiles, from design development and hand tying to natural dyeing and contemporary experimentation. He will also discuss the cultural stories woven into Bandhani designs, including ceremonial textiles such as the Chandrakhani dupatta, traditionally gifted to brides as a symbol of welcome and continuity.

A rare insight into a living craft tradition where heritage, community and innovation meet through cloth.

Event Cancellation Policy
All bookings are non-refundable. However, if you let us know that you are unable to attend an event you have booked at least two weeks before the event, we will open up your place. If we find another participant, you will be offered a credit note.

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