As the country celebrated the National Handloom Day on Friday, there were many discussions held across different parts of Rajasthan discussing as to why the handloom sector, despite being a great tradition of the country, was on decline. Let’s see what the leading names of the industry have to say about the challenge and opportunities existing in this sector…
‘Artisans should strengthen their foundation‘
Rta Kapur Chisti, a renowned author and textile scholar, in one of the talk shows, said, that all artisans engaged in the handloom industry must first strengthen their foundation. Only then can they create top class work which will be coveted by the entire world. Benchmarks must be created to recognise what kind of handiwork qualifies as top class work so that artisan may be encourage and supported to produce such quality. Handloom is a great tradition of the country which is witnessing decline. This is mainly because artisans are not being given enough respect and recognition for their trade. The earnings in the industry are also very low which is why this generational craft is dying. If artisans get good earnings, their children will also follow in their footsteps and keep the art alive,” she said.
AnanTaya co-founder Geetanjali Kasliwal, speaking in a webinar on Sustainable Luxury tomorrow, said, “Recontextualising the meaning and relevance of Luxury in this new paradigm linking it to Sustainability is the biggest need of the hour.”
Minister of Art & Culture, Government of Rajasthan, Dr. B.D Kalla, said, “During the Indian Independence Movement, Mahatma Gandhi had said that agriculture is a deficit deal, a farmer can never move ahead by just farming. Which is why Gandhi started ‘Khadi Gram Udyog’ (khadi industries), ‘Kutir Udyog’ (cottage industries) and ‘Hathkargha Udyog’ (handloom industries).
The handloom industry employs many people and is significant for the economy. In Rajasthan, Sanganeri, Bagru and Ajrak prints have been predominantly strong. Many artisans from the State have received awards and been recognised for their exceptional work.”