Kalamkari hand-block printing, specifically the Pedana style, has its roots in the 18th century art of hand-painting on textile. Originally, it involved the use of a pen (kalam), which is how it got its name. As its became more in demand among the Mughal and Deccan royalty, the craft transitioned to wood-block printing.

Kalamkari art takes time and effort to create. It is mainly practiced in the small town of Pedana, roughly 12 kilometres off the old coastal trading city of Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh. The skilled practitioners belong to the Devanga, Kannebhaktulu, Senapathalu and Padmasali communities. They are dedicated to preserving the unique print. The common designs include enchanting trees, flowering vines like poppies, and intricate Persian-inspired elements.

Today, Kalamkari block prints are used in a wide range of products, including clothing and lifestyle essentials. It has gained worldwide recognition, including in some forms of chintz. Designers have reinterpreted the prints for runways It also found contemporary interpretations on runways.

There are 17 stages in the creative process. At each stage, the craft embraces nature, from preparing the cotton textile to block printing and dyeing. These dyes come from from roots, leaves, indigo, tamarind seeds and turmeric.

The art form was certified with the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2013.

The crafts and textiles unit at Kalakshetra in Chennai proudly retains the practice of Kalamkari block printing. The Victoria and Albert Museum in London further cements Kalamkari legacy by displaying a wall hanger from the 15th century.

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