Chronicles of colour
For thousands of years, artisans have dyed cloth. The textile industry has just lately started using synthetic colors (the first artificial dye was created in 1857). The shades of color hold a powerful meaning within Bodo society. Bodo follows a principle of five elements in their daily life. Bathouism (also, Bathou) is the folk religion of the Boro have 5 shades of the flag that helps in knowing the chronicles of colors.
01
The canvas of 'Ether'
Element Ether is known as the "Okhrang" in Bodo language. It is the synergy of all the elements. Ether is space, stillness, that which contains and holds. Metaphorically, it is a blank canvas of handwoven textiles. The space element is directly connected to the throat chakra or ‘Vishuddha’, ‘place of purification’, gives ability to artisans to visually speak and be heard through creating intricate designs(Aagor) in the textiles.
02
The color of 'Fire'
"Orr" is known as the element of fire, it represents passion from inspiration.
Fire: blazing sun, fire, heat, energy
•COLORS: red, orange, gold, violet, smoky colors
•FABRIC TYPES: thermal fabrics, glossy sheen, flowing fabrics
•DESIGN DETAILS: vibrant, invigorating patterns
•THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES: spiritual cleansing, space clearing, creativity
03
The color of 'Water'
"Dwi" is known as the element of water. Water is associated with wisdom, stamina and endurance.
Water: ocean, rain, waterfalls, movement
•COLORS: blue, aquamarine, sea green, black, iridescence
•FABRIC TYPES: stretch-based fabrics, knitwear, athletic apparel
•DESIGN DETAILS: lucid patterns, soft angles, shimmering fabrics
•THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES: emotional release, flow, intuition
04
The color of 'Earth'
"Haa" is known as the element of Earth. The element teaches us about stability and groundedness.
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Earth: plants, mountains, earthquakes, rocks
•COLORS: green, brown, black, earth tones
•FABRIC TYPES: woven, natural, angular, textured
•DESIGN DETAILS: structured patterns, layers
•THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES: grounding, growth, expansion
0
The color of 'Air'
"Bar" is known as the element of Air. the air is associated with Spirit.
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Air: wind, vortex, tornado, ocean tides, galaxy
•COLORS: yellow, gray, blue, white, silver, prism
•FABRIC TYPES: breathable fabrics, mesh, outdoor apparel fabrics
•DESIGN DETAILS: pleats, vents, buoyant bias cut, fluid patterns, symmetry
•THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES: mental release, balance, intelligence, evolution
