Benarasi silk sarees are likely to flaunt natural hues instead of synthetic dyes. A six member research team from the Institution of Technology of Benaras Hindu University (IT-BHU), is working out a strategy to develop and modernize the Bhadohi saree and carpet industry.
Led by Dr P K Mishra and Dr Pradip Srivastav from the department of Chemical Engineering, the team is using the solvent and enzymatic extraction technique to get natural colours from plants flowers and fruits. Additives are used to fix the colours to the fibre.
These natural colours are non-toxic and environment-friendly, unlike the conventional chemical dyes used for colouring fabrics.
In an exclusive interview with Fibre2fashion, Dr P K Mishra said “Although in terms of appearance there’s not much difference between natural and synthetically dyed textiles. In fact the synthetic dying process is well established and easy, whereas there is still a lot of improvement required in the case of natural dying. The range of colours available in synthetic dye category is far more compared to that available in natural dyes. A lot of effort is needed in the identification and extraction of dyes from various herbs/plants available in India and worldwide. At present with certain limitation of colour range, we will be having naturally dyed textile products of nearly equal quality as those of synthetically dyed products. The user of naturally dyed textile products will certainly encourage the echo friendly attitude.”
When asked about the response from domestic and international markets, the IT-BHU head asserted that "The main impact of naturally dyed carpet and saris will be on western countries and especially on European markets, as these customers are sensitive towards the eco-system. The educated urban population of India should also prefer naturally dyed saris as these are not detrimental to the eco-system and it is also aesthetically good."
Dr Mishra further disclosed that "While the naturally dyed products can cost slightly more than the synthetically dyed ones, it will certainly give direct and indirect health advantages together with a great feeling of participation in the conservation and improvement of quality of biosphere, we are living in."
