Standing by the threads

The COVID-19 pandemic has made survival difficult for the weaving community. The handloom industry has slipped into a mode of despair as sales have fallen and their only source of income by spinning has no demand. However, the warmth and camaraderie stand with the power of solidarity and helps those who need it the most, especially during the tough times.

Many companies and industry experts come forward to promote the handloom sector of the industry by promoting their goods and spreading awareness about looms. The minister of textile, Smriti Irani and the textile sector have worked toward the welfare of weavers across the country by promoting the handloom sector.

The fashion industry as a whole has created a positive environment for the handloom sector by keeping it in play. The FDCI (Fashion Design Council of India) to meet the makers. They have also started a COVID-19 Support Fund to support the upcoming designers across the country.

The FDCI is shortly expected to lend a hand to the weavers. They are excited to help the handloom weavers through their newly found COVID-19 Support Fund. Sunil Sethi, chairman of FDCI believes that buying merchandise from weavers to make high in demand cotton masks and ensembles would aid their business to get back on track. The idea behind the purchase is to buy the unsold handloom fabrics stocked with them which would help the weaving community earn a better livelihood.

FDCI board member Rahul Mishra feels it’s time to involve weavers in what we do and value their art. He stated that he was a part of the FDCI board meetings wherein the purpose was to promote the handloom sector to give weavers a better and sustainable future. He believes the cycle process of buying and selling and repurchase of materials from weavers is the sustainable way forward. He states that this should be considered as valuing the craft and not as charity.