In our fast-moving and digitally-driven society, we are sadly losing out on the human connection, and with it age-old traditions and crafts. At seemakrish, we live by our mission of preserving and bringing a new context to these traditions and handmade crafts. There is a ‘soul’ and a story behind our products.
In this “A Peek Into Our Studio” segment, we focus on the artisans who are the face and hands behind our textiles. Without their skilled expertise, we would not be here.
Meet N. Govindaraju – our block print artisan extraordinaire! N. Govindaraju or ‘Govindanna’ to us (‘anna’ in the Kannada language is an affectionate and respectful way to address older males. It means “older brother”) has been a block printer for 39 years. He was born and raised in Bangalore and has lived and worked there all his life. Govindanna is a highly skilled craftsperson with a kind and gentle heart. We are very proud and fortunate to have him as part of our ‘textile family’!
Let’s learn more about Govindanna!
Photo: Seema Krish
1. How did you become a Block Printer?
I had just completed my high school diploma, but did not fare well on my college entrance exams. So I decided to go into vocational training in the crafts instead. In December 1974, I began working as an apprentice printer for a blockprint workshop* that printed saris in Seshadripuram – a Bangalore locale. After three years, I moved to a different workshop where I was promoted to the ranks of a master printer. I joined Tharangini (this is our block print partner in Bangalore.) in 1988…and, I have never looked back!
(* Note: In a typical block print workshop, apprentices work on the filling and secondary color printing while master printers work on the outline printing.)
2. Describe your job.
As the Master printer at Tharangini, I troubleshoot all challenges and oversee a team of 10 craftspeople. When a new design or a complicated pattern comes to our studio, I figure out the best way to make these come to life on the fabric. I review the designs and then collaborate with the block maker to create the printing blocks. I’m also responsible for developing new approaches and techniques of printing. For example, we recently developed a stencil discharge printing blocks.
3. What is the most challenging thing about block printing textiles?
There are primarily two challenges. One is the usage of ‘hidden’ registration points to make designs look seamless, particularly when it involves multiple colors. Two, hand-eye coordination. For instance, within the Seema Krish Design collection, the Chowpatty pattern was challenging because of its symmetrical two-color design that required to look ‘irregular’. We had to create several blocks before we succeeded.
Seema Krish Fabric: Chowpatty Kesar Orange
4. What projects have you worked on that you are most proud of, and why?
Tharangini was founded by Mrs. Lakshmi Srivathsa in the 70s. Mrs. Srivathsa was keen on preserving the textile heritage and brought the craft to the South. I feel very proud to have worked alongside her, and to have been selected by her to carry on this wonderful craft tradition. The respect I receive at Tharangini for my craftsmanship and as an individual gives me a lot of pride.
5. What do you like best about your job?
I like developing new techniques and feel inspired by new challenges. After Ms. Srivathsa’s daughter, Padmini, took over the business, we have evolved from simply printing saris to creating fabric-by-the-yard. I’ve enjoyed the challenges that have come with this change. The variations and new developments keeps me feeling excited about my job!
6. If you were not a Block Printer what would you be?
If not a blockprinter, perhaps I would have been an industrial painter. I like working with my hands and colors!
7. What is in your tool kit?
A good quality wooden blocks, a well-padded printing table, a color tray and for mixing and stamping the blocks, a nylon brush for cleaning the blocks, pins for pinning fabric, thread, newspaper and a chalk for marking.
Photo: Seema Krish
8. What is your ‘rule of thumb’ in life?
Honesty, integrity and respect for age and authority.
9. What is your favorite part of Bangalore?
The 240-acres botanical garden Lalbagh – I enjoy being around flowers and nature! In the 70s, I worked at a block print unit that was located in the basement of a movie theater – the Urvashi Theater inside Lalbagh. During break time, we would sneak into the theater and watch movies!
10. What is your favorite Seema Krish fabric?
Worli is my favorite pattern. I like the dimension and combination of the print and embroidery.
Seema Krish Fabric: Worli Anjeer Lilac
Here’s Seema (right) with Govindanna (left) and Padmini (middle) at Tharangini.
Photo: Seema Krish
Watch Govindanna work on the technical alignment of a new design concept.
Thank you, Govindanna, for your time! We truly appreciate your dedication to preserving a wonderful tradition.
