Jamdani is one of Bangladesh’s most extraordinary textile legacies, a handwoven cotton fabric deeply rooted in the ancient loom traditions of Bengal. Renowned for its richly detailed motifs, Jamdani is the only surviving fine cotton among the many muslins once celebrated across the world. The name derives from Persian, “jam” (flower) and “dani” (vessel), reflecting the floral and geometric forms that appear to float upon the cloth. Mentioned as early as the 3rd century BC and refined during the Mughal era with Persian influences, Jamdani reached remarkable artistic heights. Once cherished by royalty, its elegance endures in pieces crafted over months with traditional tools like the Kandul and Makkh, finished with meticulous care through starching and sun-drying.

Inscribed by UNESCO in 2013 as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Jamdani stands at the heart of cultural preservation efforts. Aarong has played a pivotal role in its revival, beginning with its 1981 exhibition that recovered over 300 lost designs, and continuing through landmark initiatives such as Story of Pride (2010), the Muslin Festival (2016), and the Jamdani Festival (2019) in collaboration with the National Crafts Council and Bengal Foundation, ensuring this patient, sustainable craft endures as living heritage. It stands as a symbol of heritage you can wear, an artistry that refuses to be rushed.

Vibrant Panna Hajar motif of Jamdani

Artisans working together on an intricate design

Artisans carefully place the motifs on Jamdani

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