The term 'Batik' is an Indonesian-Malay word and is now used as a generic term which refers to the process of dyeing fabric by making use of a resist technique. In this process, fabric is painted with molten wax and then dyed in cold dyes. The technique is thought to be over a thousand years old and historical evidence demonstrates that cloth decorated with this resist technique was in use in the early centuries in Africa, the Middle East and in several places in Asia. Travellers from the Indian subcontinent are believed to have brought this art form to India. Batik
sarees are famous for their designs and contrasting color schemes.
