Within the Apani Dhani ecolodge, artists and artisans from the local community will come and offer you an initiation to "Tie & Dye", traditional «bangles» making, pottery, papier maché and mandana drawing on recycled paper. A cooking lesson will also be part of this week.

These workshops are organized to bring revenues to the local community. Apani Dhani does not take any commercial margin on these activities.
Artisans do not always speak English, therefore, information is passed by observation and gestures.

« Tie & Dye » or Bandhej is a technique from Rajasthan and Gujarat.
The colour choices and combinations differ from region to region but are traditionally vibrant: yellow, black, red and green are the most predominant.
In this process, each section is carefully dipped in colour while the remaining fabric is covered tightly with thread or string. This could be tied again to bring yet another contrast in colour.
Usually the women are assigned to the fine craft of tying while the men prepare the dye.
In the Shekhawati region this art is on the verge of disappearing.
Cheap machine made imitation of Tie and Dye are available on the market making the traditional products impossible to sell. Most of the male members of Rangrez families, artisans in charge of Tie & Dye, have found jobs in Middle East countries.
Therefore, by participating in this workshop, you are also supporting a revival of artisan craft.

« Bangles » making workshops:
Indian women, rich or poor, always wear jewels: rings, necklaces, ankle bangles, earings, etc. Married women wear traditional bangles on both wrists.
During this workshop, you will learn how to make bangles using resin. You will choose your colours and will be able to keep your creations for yourself or bring them home as gifts.