Handloom Directorate takes pain to popularize tribal art

04 Aug '09

2 min read

Handicrafts and handloom department of Sikkim is making efforts to increase the popularity of the weavers of an indigenous tribe of the state. The department is offering training to unemployed Lepcha boys and girls of age group 14 to 24, of the state, informed the Directorate of Handloom and Handicraft (DHH).

The Lepchas are the original inhabitants of Sikkim. Each family of this tribe has their own looms made of bamboo at their houses, which are primitive and not modern. Handloom weaving in this state is particularly associated with the weaving of the Lepcha community. Primarily it is woven on the 'loin' loom, which produces a superior quality fabric.

The DHH officials said that since they do not want the lepcha art of weaving to be exploited in the handloom market, they have applied for the Geographical Indications (GI) registration of the art. DHH officials are doing research work on getting the GI and are hoping that this registration would be received in the next 1-2 years.

The fabric made by the people of this tribe is suitable for curtains, bags, tablemats, belts, shawls, bed-covers and cushion-covers. The handicraft products from Sikkim are gaining recognition and appreciation from all parts of the world. This popularity and acknowledgement also work as the tools of encouragement for craftsmen of the state.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

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