Cotton Khadi

We live in a country that is rich in its arts and crafts that have been inherited from a diverse history and varied culture. India is the only country that still produces traditional hand-woven textiles along with all the natural and organic processes involved. We can boast of embroideries, dyeing, printing and weaving processes that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Each and every region of India contributes in creating a myriad of textile tradition. The hilly region of the country produces a rich variety of woollen textiles. The pashmina and shahtoosh shawls of Kashmir, shawls and woollen garments of Himachal Pradesh and other North Eastern states provide excellent examples of world famous woollen Indian textiles. Let’s take a look at some of the most famous woollen textiles produced in India that are sought after the world over. Pashmina: A fine type of Kashmiri wool, textiles made from it were first woven in Kashmir; which is probably the source of the wo...

With its shimmering appearance and smooth texture, silk has been enticing Indians for the longest time. In fact, India ranks as the world’s largest consumer of silk and the second largest producer of silk in the world after China. Known as Resham in eastern and north India, and Pattu in the southern parts of India, Silk has a long history in the subcontinent dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization. Silk is considered to be a symbol of royalty, and historically, silk was used primarily by the upper classes. The tradition of wearing silk sarees for marriages and other auspicious ceremonies is a custom in the north eastern state of Assam. In Assam, three different types of silk are produced, collectively called ‘Assam Silk’. These are Muga, Eri and Pat silk. Muga, the golden silk, and Eri are produced by silkworms that are native only to Assam. Muga Silk: Muga silk or the golden silk is not only nature’s gift to Assam, but also a symbol of rich Assamese culture. It ...

If there is one piece of clothing that unifies our country from North to South, it is the saree. The significance of sarees is perfectly timeless and unmatched. Its design is universal and limitless, referenced around the world for its drape, textile and history. It is versatile and adaptable to context, environment and culture, with its making directly tied to the livelihoods of millions of craftspeople. The existence of the saree can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished during 2800-1800 BC, and is still worn by Indian women on a regular basis. A six or nine yards long unstitched fabric that can make any woman look elegant and graceful, it is the most versatile piece of fashion a woman can own. The Nivi drape is the most popular style of draping the saree, wherein it is pleated and tucked in at the waist and the loose end, or pallav, of the saree is draped over the left shoulder, baring the midriff. But did you know that there are over a hu...