Since their introduction, power looms have been widely accepted in the Indian textile industry because of their effectiveness and reduced expenses.
But the demand for handwoven fabrics fell precipitously as a result, which was a devastating blow to the handloom sector! In addition to the handloom workers’ financial difficulties and unemployment, the craftsmanship and abilities that had been passed down through the centuries began to progressively disappear.
The handloom business has seen a rebound in recent years despite growing environmental concerns brought on by the power looms’ high energy consumption and poor quality. Globally, consumers are looking for sustainable alternatives to fast fashion as they become more conscious of its detrimental effects on the environment.
Let’s examine how handloom has succeeded in reinventing sustainable fashion and the reasons for Kolkata’s recent spike in demand for Bengali handloom sarees.
Handloom & Sustainable Fashion- A Match Made in Heaven
- The Use Of Natural Fibres
The use of natural fibers is the most notable of the handloom industry’s many advantages. Cotton, silk, and linen are the raw materials used in the handloom business to create textiles.
What is the catch here? These materials are very biodegradable since they contain natural fibers. Because of this, it has a far smaller environmental impact than polyester or nylon, which are made from crude oil and take years to break down, leaving behind enormous carbon footprints.
- The Use Of Plant-Based Dyes
Handloom weavers use natural plant-based colors instead of synthetic ones that include harsh and poisonous chemicals. In contrast to their synthetic cousins, which cause severe air and water pollution, these natural colors don’t release pollutants, even if they considerably raise the cost of handloom cotton sarees when purchased online.
Therefore, buying handloom sarees is a conscientious way to support sustainable fashion methods that aim to protect our environment, even though they may be little more expensive.
- A Significant Reduction In Carbon Footprint
The handloom sector mostly depends on manual skills, in contrast to the power loom sector, which is entirely reliant on machines. How is this beneficial? In contrast to power looms, which employ machines to accomplish the work, this industry uses a lot less energy because of its huge reliance on manual labor! In the end, this leads to significantly less consumption of fossil fuels or electricity, which lowers the carbon footprint!
- Support And Encouragement To Local Economies
Small-scale craftspeople tucked away in rural areas produce the majority of the handloom Bengal cotton sarees sold online. These craftspeople expect a fair price for their exquisite craftsmanship, which is the only thing that sustains them.
Therefore, when a customer decides to purchase a handloom item, they are directly supporting these gifted weavers. Even while it may not seem like much on a smaller scale, this funding helps these artisans maintain their livelihoods by giving them a decent income.
In order to maintain the history of rich cultural heritage, this approach not only supports the local economy but also makes sure that the priceless skills of master craftsmen are passed down to future generations.
- Encouraging Longevity Over Mass Production
Because of their extensive knowledge of their profession, handloom weavers are able to produce durable and visually beautiful goods.
However, the manufacturing process is rather slow because it is a manual-intensive method. This is due to the weavers’ attention to detail, which produces unique items that effectively withstand the fast-fashion cycle.
Therefore, buying a Jamdani saree online isn’t just for the dress! Rather, a client is spending their money on craftsmanship that endures for many years. This encourages a change in value toward fewer, higher-quality things, which contributes to waste reduction and sustainability.
How Does the Future of the Handloom Industry Look Like?
Well, despite the prevalence of fast-fashion items, consumer awareness is steadily changing consumer preferences due to the rise of ethical and sustainable fashion trends.
In addition, the government has started the National Handloom Development Programme (NDHP), which intends to revitalize India’s handloom sector by assisting weavers and craftspeople nationwide. The promotion of handloom goods through direct marketing channels—including e-commerce partnerships—is the main goal of this campaign. By connecting with online channels, this strategy enables weavers to reach a wider audience and boost sales.
To better promote handloom products, the NDHP has also placed a strong emphasis on programs like advertising, e-marketing training, and international partnerships. This is why recently opened saree boutiques in Kolkata have a large selection of handloom sarees, highlighting the diversity and rich history of Indian textiles. And Katha: A Tale of Weaves is no different!