Bandhani, also known as Bandhej, is an ancient Indian textile art, a type of tie-dye that originated in Gujarat and Rajasthan. The word "Bandhani" comes from the Sanskrit word "bandhna," meaning "to tie" or "to bind," reflecting the technique used to create its distinctive patterns. It involves pinching and tying small sections of fabric with thread before dyeing, creating intricate patterns of dots and other motifs.