WHAT’S INSIDE STARCRAFT 01 A struggle for survival 02 Future seems uncertain 03 I think its benefial!
INTERVIEW
TRENDS
04 The real woman at rescue 05 Finally a history?
06 The Quirky India 07 Traditional, a new western?
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DIY 08 Pottery: No clay! 09 Home decor ideas 10 Keep it simple?
SNIPPETS 11 12 13 14
The World Ethnic Day NIFT Craft Cluster Weavers policy Done with legacy?
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Shreya Bangard
A struggle for
Survival
The eternal bond that it has with the rich heritage of our country is precedence to India’s future. Its elegance is unparalled, its sheen is grandeur, its beauty magnificent, BUT it is dying! Kosa silk of Bhandara district in Maharashtra is taking its last breath and it is our moral failure that we are letting the craft die!
Associated with the ceremonial rites of Ancient India, silk has been a highly revered fabric. From times immemorial, silk has been a much sought after fabric by not only the common man but also kings and queens. It continues to be a popular and widely used material because of its softness, smoothness, lustre and graceful and sensual folds which lend themselves exquisitely to designing. The combination of shine and the glamour associated with silk has led to the creation of a myriad of traditional style, with each region lending its unique flavour to Indian ethnicity. Obtained from the silkworms that breed on the trees of Sal, Arjun and Saja; Kosa silk is also known as wild silk. Known for its durability and short fibre length, Kosa is only produced in the Indian subcontinent. Though producing one kosa silk product is tedious and time consuming, the end result is totally worth it. The rich
texture and the deep colour that you see along with the intricately embroidered patterns that one feels makes one crave for the product even more. Bhandara district is famous for its renowned and exquisite Kosa silk products for generations. It is like a closely held craft handled
down over the years. The vintage, age old handlooms still remain the backbone of the district but how long will the district survive on the same backbone remains a big question. Presence of Kosa silk production in the district can be dated back to the 19th century. Andhagaon, also known as
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the dark village, has been producing Kosa products since 1972 and has been holding weekly markets for the same ever since. The entire village is surrounded by forests which serve as an apt place to cultivate cocoons. The climate changes of the district also serve as an essential part in the cocoon
growth. Despite of all these favourable conditions, Kosa silk production is depleting in the area. Employment remains one of the major issues that is leading to such adverse conditions. The patience and prudence required to weave Kosa products is painstaking and today no one is ready
to dedicate their ‘precious’ time to such a task. Also, the work environment in which the weavers work is miserable. The handlooms do not function properly, electricity is fluctuating, the fans do not work, supply of raw material is uncertain and such conditions are accentuating the problem of low employment in this craft. All I am saying is that the craft is a powerful tool to create a catalytic impact on the lives of people engaged in this sector. To realise the full potential of the craft; the gaps, the overlaps and the challenges in the value chain must be overcome to create an ecosystem that enables the craft to thrive. I would conclude my thoughts on an eye opening noteWhen the last cocoon is hatched, when the last handloom is set, when the last product is woven, we will discover that machines can’t buy quality!
The real woman
AT R EESS CU E
By Shreya Bangard
“I feel strongly about the dying art of handlooms in the country, and also about the plight of artisans who are struggling for livelihood. I am delighted with the opportunity to spread awareness about it.” The “Real Woman”, as she claims herself, is an actress who is deep rooted to her nation’s culture and believes in the beauty of an Indian woman. When asked about her inclination towards sarees, she proudly replied that, “sarees are India’s gracious garment which connects the country’s past with its future”. Also, she went on to say that when it comes to choosing a dress for an occasion, it depends on the occasion but she prefers to wear “a saree always”.
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Vidya Balan, the epitome of Indian beauty and grace, proudly declared herself as the brand ambassador for handlooms in the state of Madhya Pradesh during the interview. She, who is more often seen in Indian apparel when most shied away from it, is credited with making the saree a fashion statement. “It’s a huge responsibility and a great honour to become the face of revolution in the handlooms industry of Madhya Pradesh”, asserted Vidya, which definitely shows her keen interest to help the depleting handlooms industry in the state. She understands her role as a citizen of India and
knows the urgency to save the identity of the nation. The bong beauty explained that when she was approached by the cultural ministry of Madhya Pradesh, she wasn’t “sure and confident enough of taking such a powerful responsibility”; but as soon as she was updated with the current status of handlooms in the state, something within her prompted her to act for the faceless weavers. The fearless beauty is currently preparing herself to “grace the prestigious exhibition that is going to take place in Mumbai to promote the crafts and the weaves from the remote areas of the state, including Chanderi,
Maheshwari silk sarees and Khadi products”. Also, she is planning to “represent the craft internationally”. Her enthusiasm and determination is sure to help the crafts grow and regain their rich identity. “Handicrafts envisage an India held together by its roots- an India that respects heritage, civilisation, anthropology, art and culture.” Everyone is thrilled to see Vidya Balan endorse the handlooms of Madhya Pradesh bringing in her own flavour of everyday ethnicity. The tremendous synergy between her vision and the vision of future India is sure to bring victory her way.
ACT FOR THE FACELESS WEAVERS! COVER