handmade . indigenous . timeless
Join us in the journey of exploring handmade textile & craft traditions in India, practiced tirelessly by local artisans. We are a bunch of curious enthusiasts who travel to different states of our country, meet artisans, document what we learn from them and bring their work to you in timeless pieces of clothing :)
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The world of Hand Block Prints
What is Kalamkari?
Kalamkari is an age-old craft currently practiced in two styles, with pen and with blocks; in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. We are bringing to you the latter style which is carried out by hand block printing using natural dyes. read more
What is Mangalagiri?
Mangalagiri weave is loved and treasured among textile lovers because of its simplicity and comfort that it brings. This handwoven textile is produced in a town also named Mangalagiri in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh. read more
What is Ajrakh?
Ajrakh is a hand block printing textile from Kutch, Gujarat defined by its earthy dyes with motifs deriving inspiration from nature. The craft came to Kutch region in Gujarat from Sindh, while its roots stretch to the Indus Valley Civilization. read more
What is Kala Cotton?
Kala cotton is the original pure ‘old world’ cotton of India. Though 'Kala' means black in many Indian languages, here it refers to the cotton pod or core of the cotton. It is a variety of organic cotton which is indigenous to Kutch, Gujarat. read more
What is Kolhapuri Chappal?
Kolhapuri Chappals are native to the Indian state of Maharashtra. They are strong, open toed leather footwear, handcrafted by artisans from villages like Kapashi, Kurundwad in Kolhapur district of Maharashtra. read more
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Our journey so far
"Assal" in Marathi means authentic, pure, real. We set out on this journey with Maharashtra - our home. Since then, we've believed in taking you along on all our endeavours; be it Ilkal and Khun from Karnataka, Ikat from Telangana, Mangalagiri and Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh, Ajrakh and Kala Cotton from Gujarat or Kolhapuri Chappals from Maharashtra. A handmade piece of craft coming to life step-by-step is fascinating to watch. By sharing what we witness, we wish to make you feel like you've travelled to the place yourself. That's how you know that it's real, it's Assal :)