Volume VI Issue I January-March 2026

Name of Author : Dolly Chhatwal, Reena Roy

Title of the paper : Sanganeri Printing in Transition: Authenticity, Cultural Heritage and Changing Market Dynamics of Traditional Printed Fabrics in Jaipur

Abstract: Sanganeri hand block printing is one of the most important textile traditions of Rajasthan which is closely linked with the cultural and craft identity of Sanganer, Jaipur. It is a craft defined by fine details, light coloured textile backgrounds, fragile floral designs and carved wooden blocks that is a result of cumulatively acquired artisanal expertise passed down from one generation to the next. It is registered for use as a Geographical Indication GI which further formalizes the link between Sanganeri printing and its geographical origin. The craft, however, has been subject to a lot of transformation because of the development of technology, commercialisation, shifting consumer desires, product diversification and growth of the modern markets of fashion and lifestyle. These changes have created opportunities but also problems about traditional knowledge, the socio cultural identity of the craft and authenticity. This paper analyses Sanganeri printing in the light of its interdependence of authenticity, cultural heritage and the changing market dynamics. The exploratory approach to the study is qualitative in nature and solely based on secondary sources such as government craft documentation, Geographical Indication records, institutional documentation and academic published literature. The gathered material was analyzed thematically based on four general dimensions geographical and technical authenticity, cultural heritage, commercial and technological transformation and opportunities on present market. The analysis reveals that Sanganeri printing is not only in decline, but is also being repositioned in the dynamic textile, fashion and lifestyle market. Meanwhile, commercialization and technological substitution might provide a difference between visual imitation of Sanganeri designs and the process of traditional craft. This paper proposes that sustainability of Sanganeri printing is based on one hand on continuity and on the other hand on adaptation. When this is coupled with transparent identification, recognition of artisans and preservation of traditional knowledge, contemporary design innovation, digital communication, product diversification and market access can contribute to the visibility of the craft. At the end the paper proposes that authenticity cannot be interpreted as absolute opposition to change, instead as the basis of a cultural identity that can form the basis for responsible innovation and sustainable market formation.

Keywords : Sanganeri printing, hand block printing, authenticity, cultural heritage, Geographical Indication, market dynamics, Jaipur, traditional textiles, artisan knowledge, craft sustainability

DOI :

Page No. : 86-93