Navy delegates explore natural dyeing at Sankalpa Art Village

As part of the International Fleet Review organized by the Indian Navy in Visakhapatnam, a workshop on natural dyeing was organized at Sankalpa Art Village near Pinagadi in Pendurthi mandal on Thursday.

Held under the auspices of the Eastern Region Naval Welfare and Health Association, the program brought together nearly 60 delegates from nearly 50 countries. Visitors spent several hours interacting with artisans and observing the craft traditions maintained by the village collective. They examined hand-woven fabrics colored with vegetable dyes, traditional lacquered toys and locally prepared ox fat products, and discussed techniques and raw material supply with artisans.

Delegates were also introduced to traditional culinary practices and took turns grinding pulses in stone grinders using methods preserved at the centre. The highlight of the session was the hands-on tie and dye activity. Participants folded and tied fabrics into different patterns and then soaked them in vats of natural color extracts. The program ended with the Kolatam show, where many foreign delegates joined local artists in rhythmic folk dances.

Along with the wives of senior naval officers, Dinesh K. Tripathi’s wife Shashi Tripathi and Sanjay Bhalla’s wife Priya Bhalla also attended the programme. The event was coordinated by Jameelya Akula on behalf of Sankalpa Art Village. Founding secretary of Green Climate Team NGO JV Ratnam, professor Sudhakar Reddy and Tulasi Naturals chairman Turpati Satyanarayana were among those present. Akula Chalapathi Rao and Parvathi, founders of Sankalpa Art Village, facilitated the visit along with their team.