The Story
Guledgudda . Rusting Looms . Bonfire of Khana Blouses
Holi, the festival of colours, begins with a bonfire. This fire is known to signify the victory of good over evil. Earlier this year, the weavers of Guledgudda wanted to burn their rusting looms in this fire. Ironic, considering these very looms produced vibrant and stunningly intricate Khana blouse pieces.
Unique Motifs . Indigo Cakes . Rich Weaves
Known not just for their unique motifs and traditional wisdom, this town was also home to dyers and other artisans with specialised knowledge and skills of the intricacies of the loom. According to the local lores, this town had such a rich weaving tradition that indigo cakes were sold on pushcarts. Today, as with other crafts across the country, Guledgudda has only a handful of weavers left. Most of them have either given up the trade for the comforts of the city or have switched to power loom.
Ramesh . Hope . Revival of Looms
Ramesh, a young weaver from a distant town, with a diploma is textile design; several years of experience of working with a well-known handloom cooperative; and most importantly, with hope in his heart, came to Guledgudda with dreams of reviving the looms. He started working with a handful of weavers who have carried on their craft despite a series of setbacks due to unreasonable government policies in the last few decades. This year, he convinced others from throwing their looms in the Holi bonfire.
Current Scenario . Support Weavers . Make A Purchase
But today the looms of Guledgudda are weary and so are the weavers. They are in severe distress for the second consecutive year due to covid. They have khana and Ilkal sarees and without clearing the stock, they cannot risk producing more. Some are even struggling for food. Worse, now with the full lockdown in place, the city-dwelling family members have returned and with them brought home the virus as well. Many elderly are succumbing to the disease.
Last year, a few of you sponsored food kits that was disturbed to about 32 families. This year, the weavers don't want to ask for donations.
Instead, they are asking you to buy their cloth so it can afford them the dignity they are used to. If you would like to buy their products, please take a look at the catalogue. Ramesh is coordinating these efforts and he can be reached on +91 88672 27542