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The Future of Handcrafted Textiles in the Times of Fast Fashion
Celebrating the rich heritage and dynamic evolution of handcrafted textiles in India and discussing its future, where time-honored techniques are facing serious challenges.
Kolkata:
India’s handwoven textiles are legendary, representing centuries of tradition, artistry, and cultural heritage that have been passed down through generations, each piece telling a unique story through its intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Keeping this in mind, SUTRA TEXTILE STUDIES held a special discussion on ‘ HANDCRAFTED TEXTILES – NOW AND IN THE FUTURE’ followed by the launch of the upcoming event ‘HAND LOOM SUTRA’. This event celebrates the rich heritage and dynamic evolution of handcrafted textiles in India and discusses their future amidst serious challenges faced by time-honored techniques. The discussion included notable names in the textile and design industry: Sandip Ray, noted filmmaker and Patron, past President of SUTRA TEXTILE STUDIES; Koneenica Banerjee, Popular Actress; Shabri Wable, clothes maker & Curator of TAANT Exhibition; Bappaditya Biswas, Partner, Bai Lou & Byloom; Suchismita Dasgupta, Textiles & Costume Designer; Lolita Ray, Sutra Committee Member; Joyce Johar, Sutra Committee Member & Educationist; Sonali Basu, Textile and Crafts Revivalist; Vishal Saha, Textile Researcher and other dignitaries.
Present on the occasion, Joyce Johar, Sutra Textile Studies Committee Member & Educationist, said “Handcrafted textiles are a testament to our rich cultural legacy and an art form that deserves recognition and preservation. In the face of fast fashion, it’s crucial to remember that each piece woven on a handloom carries the spirit of our ancestors and the meticulous effort of skilled artisans. Supporting and celebrating these textiles is not just an act of appreciation but a commitment to safeguarding a cherished tradition for future generations.”
Bengal’s fine weaves have been prized both at home and abroad for centuries, and the skill of Bengal’s weavers cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world. However, the industry faces several challenges. Skilled weavers in Bengal are abandoning their looms for more lucrative jobs, and powerlooms are replacing handlooms. Powerloom textiles are being misrepresented as handloom products, and powerful machines are taking over the work and livelihoods of thousands. Synthetic fibers are replacing natural cotton and silks, and the number of ancillary workers in the handloom industry is decreasing at an alarming rate. The industry is at a critical juncture.
Despite these challenges, there are positive developments. The handloom industry is labor
intensive, and India’s young workforce is a driver for growth. The industry also sees high participation from women, especially as allied workers. Dedicated entrepreneurs are working with Bengal handlooms, creating exquisite textiles. These textiles are appreciated throughout India and exported worldwide, including to Japan, Europe, and the USA. This gives hope that handloom is still alive and thriving in certain pockets.
Koneenica Banerjee, a Popular Actress, further added, “Handwoven textiles are more than just fabric; they are the essence of our culture and heritage. In a world rapidly moving towards fast fashion, preserving the art of handloom weaving is not just about maintaining tradition but about celebrating the craftsmanship and stories woven into every thread. I am honored to support and bring attention to this vital cause through Sutra Textile Studies.”
SUTRA’s mission is to create awareness to collectively help save the traditional handloom industry, promote an eco-friendly industry with a near-zero carbon footprint, and provide income to a large section of men and women in the rural sector. By supporting handloom, we can help preserve textile techniques that are dying out due to various market forces. Some intricate designs can be done by artisans on handlooms only.
Sutra Textile Studies has an upcoming event Hand Loom Sutra which will be on for three days and will include Talks including one initiated by MARG magazine, a Bazaar, a Handloom walk, and an Exhibition celebrating the rich traditions of Indian handlooms. The event will take place at ICCR Kolkata, Ho Chi Minh Sarani, from 7th to 9th August 2024, from 11 am to 8 pm. This vibrant event will showcase a delightful selection of products from designers and weavers across India, with a special emphasis on the handlooms of Bengal and other regions. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy insightful talks, a grand bazaar, a weavers’ marketplace, live weaving demonstrations, and a fashion walk featuring stunning handloom creations. Handloom Sutra offers a unique chance to explore, shop, and appreciate the intricate art of handloom weaving while supporting talented artisans designers and of course, our weavers. Join us for an engaging and enriching experience
