kāpī kā kāg̠ẖaz (transfer paper)

Ingredients

arrowroot (ārārūṭ), gelatin, curcuma

Preparation Steps

Original Recipe Text

Arrowroot (ārārūṭ), also known as curcuma, is extracted from the root of a tree and has a flour-like appearance (maidah) (p. 99). It is used in lithography by applying a layer to the surface of the printing paper (p. 99). A high-quality, extremely fine-ground version is required specifically when coloring the paper (p. 99).

Evidence

"In lithography, a layer of it [arrowroot] is applied to the printing paper. There are various kinds of these. For coloring the paper, the best quality and a very fine-grinded version should be used."

Remarks

The practice of using arrowroot for coating lithographic transfer paper likely originated in Calcutta during the late nineteenth century (p. 99). It was found to be a cost-effective and functionally superior alternative to the common European method of using gelatin (p. 99). Local production was supported by major mills like those in Titagarh and the Lucknow Paper Mills, established in 1879 by Naval Kishore (p. 100, 101).