Ulupi – The Naga Princess Brown Kalamkari Cushion Cover

Ulupi – The Naga Princess Brown Kalamkari Cushion Cover
Size – 18 X 18 inch

The design features intricate lotuses, painted in the softest shades of pink and blue, symbolizing purity, renewal, and spiritual awakening. These blooms, set against a rich coffee-hued base, evoke the depth of the river’s currents, where Ulupi’s story began. The lotuses, delicate yet strong, mirror Ulupi’s journey—her strength as a warrior, her wisdom as a protector, and her undying love for Arjuna. The colours blend seamlessly, capturing the essence of both her serene beauty and her inner strength, making each cushion a work of art that radiates depth and sophistication.

What is Pen Kalamkari?

The art of Kalamkari has its roots in ancient India, with a rich history that spans over 3,000 years. The term Kalamkari is derived from two words—‘kalam’ meaning ‘pen’ and ‘kari’ meaning ‘work’ or ‘art’. It refers to a traditional form of hand-painting, where designs are drawn using a pen made from bamboo, and natural dyes are used to colour the fabric. This meticulous process, especially in the pen kalamkari style, is characterised by intricate line work and detailed motifs, often depicting stories from Indian mythology, folklore, and nature.

Unlike block printing, which uses stamps to create patterns, pen kalamkari is a freehand technique, where each stroke of the pen is crafted with precision and care. The artists use a special bamboo pen to draw fine outlines before filling them with vivid, natural dyes. The use of vegetable-based colours not only preserves the ancient tradition but also gives each piece a unique and organic quality that cannot be replicated. The pen kalamkari technique is a true testament to the artistry, patience, and skill passed down through generations.

Why Ulupi?

Ulupi’s name was chosen for this piece because, much like the cushion itself, her story encompasses layers of beauty, resilience, and elegance. A princess of the serpent clan, she holds a special place in the Mahabharata—an emblem of loyalty, love, and empowerment. Her character transcends the mere narrative of a mythic tale; she is a symbol of strength, bridging the worlds of the earthly and the divine. Just as the Kalamkari art imbues each thread with meaning, the name Ulupi brings to life the essence of this piece—connecting the rich heritage of Indian mythology with the beauty of contemporary design.

A Perfect Fit for Your Home

With its coffee-hued base and the subtle elegance of pink and blue lotuses, the Ulupi cushion cover adds a touch of mythology to any living space.

Whether your home is designed in a bold maximalist style or embraces the sleek simplicity of contemporary minimalism, this cushion fits effortlessly into any aesthetic.

For the maximalist, it brings in a luxurious, vibrant layer, a perfect contrast to bold patterns and rich textures.

For the minimalist, its intricate artistry and subtle colour palette provide just the right touch of elegance and storytelling, elevating any neutral or modern space with a whisper of tradition.

Care Instructions

To ensure your Ulupi cushion cover retains its beauty and vibrancy, we recommend dry cleaning only. The raw silk fabric, while luxurious and durable, deserves the gentlest care to preserve its rich texture and the fine details of the Kalamkari artwork.

Let the story of Ulupi, the Naga princess, unfold in your home with this beautiful cushion cover—an homage to myth, artistry, and timeless elegance.

The exquisite craftsmanship of our Kalamkari artisans is a true marvel. Each piece is a labour of love, where master artisans, with decades of expertise, use traditional bamboo pens and natural dyes to hand-paint every intricate design. The precision and care they dedicate to each brushstroke bring timeless beauty to life, ensuring that every Ulupi cushion cover is not just a product, but a work of art steeped in heritage and skill.