Khadi - An old art, a new weave

The national fabric of India-Khadi , also known as khaddar, is a term used for fabrics that are hand spun or handwoven, usually from cotton. There are other variations too, including silk and wool.

Khadi originated during the Swadeshi Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. For a long time khadi was associated with the country's freedom struggle and politics, and today also it is more popular and worn by politicians. Every year Khadi day is celebrated on 19th September, and the Government had imposed laws such as the imprisonment of 3 years to those who create the Indian flag using any other material than khadi, shows the importance of khadi and how deeply it is related to the country's past. Well, Khadi remained the cold-shouldered fabric of the past, but it gained popularity in today's modern fashion not only because of its subtle look but the processing of khadi benefits society and nature too.

Hand processing enables rural workers to generate income without investing too much in modern fabric processing machines, and its technique leads to a lower carbon footprint compared to other mechanical processes used today. Khadi is also been promoted by the country's Prime minister Narendra Modi, who introduced MAKE IN INDIA a couple of years back, the vision for this is to preserve and appreciate the art and crafts of the past. Make in India also helps the country and citizens to grow together in a financial state and be more independent. Make in India affects the textile industry too, the domestic textiles and apparel industry stood at $108.5 billion in 2019-20 of which $75 billion was domestically consumed while the remaining portion of worth $33.5 billion was exported to the world market. Cotton production in India alone supports 5.8 million farmers and 40-50 million people in allied sectors. India is now the second-largest exporter of textiles and clothing, and the share of khadi in total mill production is about 8.49 percent. This shows the direct relation of consumer goods made in our own country not only benefits the nation but us too.

When it comes to khadi, it's not just a piece of fabric from the past. The current popularity and acceptance of it in modern fashion is because of the sustainable and skin-friendly nature of khadi, the subtle look of it brings color to world fashion. As the wave of sustainability hit, khadi became more and more accessible. From winters to summers, from formal to casual wear, khadi can be sported everywhere. Today's youngsters can incorporate khadi in their daily wear. As opposed to so many conflicting ideas and perceptions, Khadi is androgynous. Khadi kurtas over regular jeans give a unique and dashing look.Khadi tops can be paired up with lehengas, jeans or even skirt. Khadi bags and scarves can be used to add that spunky touch to the regular outfits. Well, there are many ways to make khadi dresses interesting than wearing them just on traditional occasions. Khadi is so versatile and that is the best part that you can't stop experimenting with them and every time they give the best result.

- Mohit Pal