What is Rogan Print?
Rogan print is a unique variation of Rogan painting. Unlike the traditional freehand technique, this method uses brass molds to create precise designs. It offers a more contemporary approach to Rogan art, ensuring uniformity in patterns across multiple pieces. Rogan printing (Nirmika Rogan Printing).
Rogan painting encompasses three distinct styles:
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- Traditional Rogan Art – The original freehand technique.
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- Nirmika Rogan Print (Rogan Print) – A mold-based method for consistent designs.
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- Varnika Chhap (Varnika Rogan Painting) – A specialized style with its own distinct characteristics.
Today, traditional Rogan art remains the most widely practiced, especially by artisans in Madhapar, Kutch, Gujarat. However, the other two styles—Nirmika Rogan and Varnika Rogan—are exceptionally rare. Ashish Kansara, a master artist from Madhapar, is the sole practitioner of these two techniques. In fact, he is the only artist in the world who preserves the knowledge of all three Rogan painting styles.
How is Rogan Print Made at home
The process begins similarly to traditional Rogan painting—by preparing the Rogan paste. This involves boiling castor oil, linseed oil, walnut oil, or poppyseed oil, then mixing it with chalk powder and natural dyes.
However, in Rogan print:
First, the artisan fills the paste carefully into a brass mold. Skilled goldsmiths (sunar) craft these molds intricately using the Aari cutting technique, which ensures fine detailing. Next, the artist presses the mold onto the fabric with a wooden stick, transferring the design and leaving a crisp, uniform impression. Finally, they dry the fabric in sunlight to set the colors and strengthen the artwork.
What Makes Rogan Print Unique?
Rogan printing is ideal for creating repetitive patterns, making it perfect for sarees, scarves, and large fabric pieces. It is faster than freehand work and ensures design consistency across multiple items.
This innovative technique highlights the evolution of Rogan art while preserving its heritage. Thanks to artisans like Ashish Kansara, the rare and exquisite traditions of Rogan printing continue to thrive.