A look at natural dye colors and what they symbolize in Indian tradition.

During one of the dyeing days, I was curious about what gives ZAZI dresses their beautiful colors. When I asked Vinod bhaiya, he smiled and said, "It's not just about mixing colors - each plant has its own healing story."

The Hibiscus Dress

The hibiscus dress gets its rich color from Manjistha and Sappanwood. Vinod bhaiya told me that when Manjistha is boiled for dyeing, the whole room fills with this incredible earthy smell. It's like the plant is releasing its healing energy right from the start.

What's amazing is that as you dip the fabric and your hands work in the dye, the Manjistha actually heals your skin. It's been used in Ayurveda for centuries to purify blood and heal wounds. Even after we're done dyeing, when we pour the leftover dye water into the garden, it nourishes the soil and helps plants grow healthier.

There's something powerful about working with Manjistha - it seems to awaken a kind of inner strength. Maybe it's because this plant has always been connected to women's health and vitality. The deep red reminds you of life force, of the strength that flows through us.

When we add Sappanwood to the mix, it brings this beautiful pink tone that lightens the whole color. The combination is stunning - earthy red meeting soft pink, creating something that feels both grounded and uplifting.

The Lily Dress

The Lily dress has a completely different process. It starts with marigold petals dried in the sun - when you put them in hot water, they release this gorgeous golden yellow. Marigold has natural antiseptic properties, so even the dye bath is healing.

Next comes henna, which everyone knows is good for cooling the body and has antiseptic qualities too. The green henna over the yellow creates beautiful earthy tones.

Finally, we dip the top portion in Sappanwood for that soft pink ombre effect. Each of these plants - marigold, henna, sappanwood - they're all natural healers. Our grandmothers have been using them for skin care and medicine for generations.

More Than Just Fabric

By the end of these dyeing sessions, you realize the cloth we've created isn't ordinary fabric. It's like we've woven medicine, memories, and a touch of magic into every fiber.

The healing properties don't wash away - they stay with the cloth. When you wear these dresses, you're not just wearing beautiful colors. You're carrying the healing wisdom of these ancient plants, the care that went into every dip and stir, and the knowledge passed down through generations of dyers who understood that true beauty comes from nature's own medicine chest.