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Ajrak is a traditional connection of Sindhi culture.

Updated: Mar 7, 2021

It contains typically 2.5 to 3 metres with proper block printed designs and patterns in bright colours, mostly bright crimson and deep indigo. Some white and black used to determine the geometric symmetry in the layout. In Sindh, it gives a symbol of honour to guests; men use it as a turban or turn it around their shoulders, while ladies use it as a dupatta or hang it as a shawl in winter. It also placed on a grave as a mark of respect.


Its use copied to the old Indus Valley culture (3500-1500BC). A king-priest figurine found in Mohenjodaro shows him clothed in a shawl, which believed to be Ajrak.

In 500 BC, the Ajrak also presented to Persian King Dara (first) at his crown ceremony.

It possibly derived from the Arabic azrak believed to mean blue. It said that 'ajrak' adopted after the victory of Sindh by Mohammed bin Qasim in 712 AD.

In Matiari, Hala, Bhit Shah, Moro, Sukkur, Kandyaro, Hyderabad, and many cities of Upper Sindh and Lower Sindh Ajraks made.



The preparation of Ajrak has continued over the eras only because it is a necessary part of Sindhi history. Its usage is visible at all levels of community, and the cloth held in high appreciation with the highest respect given to it. Unfortunately, on the other hand, the real historical Ajrak industry has decreased rapidly, which noted from various analyses and reports told that due to people's carelessness, more than 30 Ajrak factories had wrecked and displaced by iron steel and other industries. It happens may be due to the unfavourable salaries to the workers. Wholesalers pay low prices to the workers to maintain their profit margin raised. No assets facilities are possible to the workers in the decline of real Ajrak and weaning familiar sources of subsistence.


This condition finally starts replacing the original Ajrak with the copy and fake Ajrak design with the faster printing method. But the trends have changed again. The modern generation is very anxious to keep its heritage. It can be seen from the "celebration of Ajrak Day" at the self and institutional level.


Ajrak-yarndyedstudio

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