Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, Jaipur

The Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing is a testament to the artistry and tradition of hand-block printing. Established in 2005, it stands as a tribute to the founders of Anokhi, a renowned Indian retail brand synonymous with block-printed apparel.

Conceived by Rachel Bracken-Singh and her husband Pritam Singh, the museum serves a dual purpose: preserving traditional crafts and providing an immersive learning experience in the intricate technique and rich history of block printing. Housed within the historic Anokhi Haveli, a 16th-century mansion near Amber Fort, the museum is a beacon of cultural heritage.

Originally known as Chanwar Palkiwalon ki Haveli, the mansion underwent meticulous restoration, receiving UNESCO's Cultural Heritage Conservation Award in 2000. Architects Nimish Patel, Parul Zaveri of Abhikram, and French architect Stephane Paumier played pivotal roles in its transformation into a space dedicated to the art of block printing.

The museum's three floors showcase a diverse array of collections, ranging from textiles and tools to contemporary designs. Visitors embark on a journey through the history of the craft, witnessing the evolution of hand-block printing from its traditional roots to innovative contemporary designs.

Highlights include the Anokhi Archives, a treasure trove of clothing and home furnishings dating back to the 1970s, and exhibits on textile traditions such as the Ajrakh dyeing technique and the village outfits of Balota, Rajasthan. "Print Progress - Innovation & Revival 1970-2005," the museum's inaugural exhibition, sets the stage for exploration into the complex processes and styles of hand-block printing.