Okhai has launched Ajrakh, a contemporary collection crafted in one of India’s oldest and most celebrated textile traditions, believed to trace back to the Indus Valley Civilisation.
Created in collaboration with artisan designer Mubin Khatri and his team in Dhamadka, Kutch, the collection brings together heritage craftsmanship and modern design sensibilities across 19 garments. Developed over eight months, the line reinterprets traditional Ajrakh through experimental print placements, contemporary silhouettes, and innovative techniques.
Crafted in breathable cotton and cotton twill, the collection incorporates natural dyes and techniques such as pothai, where fabric is hand-painted using natural colours. Moving beyond conventional block-printing methods, the collection experiments with outlines and filler blocks independently to create fresher, more versatile patterns. It also introduces Ajrakh on twill cotton denim, offering a modern take on the traditional craft.
Speaking about the launch, Manorath Dhillon, who has worked extensively with Indian Crafts and is currently heading Okhai said, “Ajrakh is a craft deeply rooted in history and community. Through this collection, we wanted to explore how it can evolve for contemporary wardrobes while preserving its authenticity.”
Rooted in sustainability, the collection uses natural fabrics and dyes, while thoughtfully reworking existing blocks to minimise waste. Through Ajrakh, Okhai continues its commitment to preserving Indian crafts while making them relevant for today’s consumers.
