Indian Handloom Saris: Once again in vogue #IndianHandlooms, #IndianEthnicWear, #IndianHandloomSaris, #TrendyIndianHandlooms

The last few years have seen a spurt of interest globally, in Indian handlooms, particularly handloom saris and ethnic wear. Thanks to the concerted efforts of a few dedicated and committed designers and revivalists, Indian handlooms are trendy and cool and much in demand.

Looms of Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Orissa and Andhra Pradesh, like Chanderi, Maheshwari, Linen, Kantha, Khadi, Benarasi, Kosa, Tussar, Ikat, Telia etc. have swept the fashion scene. Hand-painting styles like Kalamkari, Patachitra and Madhubani are the in-things. Fashionistas and celebrities are falling on top of each other to endorse and wear the latest handmade, handwoven speciality.

  Linen sarees are being worn to red carpet events. Khadi has become a fashion statement. Kalamkari printed blouses and jackets rule the fashion ramps. And corporate honchos swish around in tussar and raw silk weaves.

Weavers are also much more abreast with latest trends in fashion, thanks to social media and internet. Designs are more contemporary and street smart. And weavers and spinners are no longer relying on their grandfather's designs and age old techniques to produce their goods. They know what sells and what's in demand.










While this is good news, let's hope some of the good fortune generated from sales, percolates down to the rural weaver or artisan, who lives his/her life in anonymity and impoverishment. Locational and infrastructural constraints still prevent weavers from selling directly to the buyer, and the middleman usually takes the largest share of the pie. Designers like Anavila, Gaurang Shah, Ritu Kumar, Amlin Dutta, etc. have done their bit in popularizing handloom couture, and state government handloom and handicrafts industries have set up cooperatives etc, but a lot needs to be done yet.