Bela

Kutch

Mansukhbhai Khatri,
The Last Guardian of
Bela Block Printing

In the heart of Bela village in Gujarat, Mansukh Pitambar Khatri stands as a lone guardian of the traditional craft of Bela block printing. Once thriving with a plethora of hand-block printers, Bela now echoes with the sighs of Mansukhbhai, who laments being the last of his kind in the village. At 55, he continues to diligently undertake the entire printing process himself, from washing to printing and dyeing, emphasising the art's necessity for imagination, concentration, and precision.

Bela hand-block printing, renowned for its versatility and efficiency, holds a significant cultural value for the people of Bela. Beyond mere utility, it serves as a means to encapsulate memories, commemorate life milestones, and express identity. Yet, the village's once vibrant tradition faces an existential threat due to dwindling demand exacerbated by the allure of cheaper, machine-made alternatives. With younger generations increasingly disinterested in pursuing traditional crafts, the survival of Bela printing hangs in the balance.

Despite the daunting challenges, Mansukhbhai remains resolute in his dedication to preserving this heritage. He acknowledges the uphill battle of imparting the craft's significance to younger generations, lamenting the fading connection to their roots. Nevertheless, he believes that these skills, deeply intertwined with the village's history, must endure through each generation to safeguard their shared heritage. Mansukhbhai's unwavering commitment serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving traditional crafts in the face of modernisation.