Our Crafts

Nalivu's craft story celebrates two of India's most beautiful hand block printing traditions: Ajrakh and Kalamkari. These are not fast-fashion pieces. We source our sarees directly from artisan clusters and independent makers, building relationships with the people who have spent generations perfecting these crafts. Behind every saree is a legacy built by those who have devoted their lives to creating work of extraordinary skill. 

Ajrakh

One of India's oldest block printing traditions, originating in Kutch and Sindh. It’s known for its intricate geometric and floral patterns and the use of natural dyes made from plants and minerals. The artwork develops through multiple stages, each pass of the block adding depth and complexity. 

Kalamkari

Coming soon.

Kalamkari encompasses two distinct traditions: hand-drawn pen work (the word itself translates to “pen craft”) and block-printed Kalamkari. Nalivu's collection will focus on block-printed Kalamkari, where hand-carved wooden blocks and natural dyes create motifs like peacocks, elephants, lotuses, Tree of Life, floral vines etc. In time, Pen Kalamkari will find its place here too.