Celebrating Handloom Day at Ragi Kana: A Tribute to Karnataka’s Weaving Heritage

Bengaluru: On Sunday, August 4, 2024, Ragi Kana, Bengaluru’s beloved cultural hub, will host an enriching celebration of Handloom Day. This event promises a unique opportunity for attendees to interact directly with skilled weavers from across Karnataka and learn about their intricate craft. The day’s festivities will include an exhibition and sale of diverse handloom fabrics and garments, alongside Ragi Kana’s usual offerings of fresh groceries, vegetables, handicrafts, food items, and books.

The Handmade Sector: Sustainability and Challenges

The handmade sector is one of India’s largest sources of livelihood, offering a sustainable production method crucial in addressing climate change and our search for eco-friendly alternatives. However, the sector faces significant challenges in expanding its appeal and adoption. Ragi Kana‘s Handloom Day aims to bridge this gap by providing a platform for weavers to share their stories and experiences directly with the public.

A Day of Learning and Interaction

The program will commence at 11 AM with the soulful recitation of vachanas by Jyoti, a talented weaver from Gajendragad. Following this, attendees will have the chance to engage with the weavers who bring handloom to life. Featured weavers include:

• Basavaraj Hatti from Mahalingapura
• Gopal Kudurimot
• Jyoti from Gajendragad
• Lingraj from Kinnala

These interactions will offer insights into the weavers’ techniques, challenges, and the cultural significance of their craft.

Hands-On Workshops and Demonstrations

A highlight of the day will be a block printing workshop, where visitors can use attractive blocks to create their own designs and take their creations home. Additionally, hand spinning using the Ambar Charaka and hand weaving demonstrations will run throughout the day, allowing visitors to witness the meticulous process behind each handloom piece.

Exhibition and Sale

The Handloom Day celebration will feature an extensive exhibition and sale of handloom fabrics and garments from renowned brands such as Desi, Indu Silks, Khana Weaves, Maya, Nature Alley, Sarvodaya Khadi, Somadha Khadi, Tarivarna, Timbaktu, and Tula. Special attractions include products directly brought by visiting weavers:

• Bedsheet and coat cloth from Gadag
• Towels and carpets from Kinnal
• 90” width cloth from Mahalingapura
• Dupatta and cotton sarees from Yadagiri

These exclusive items reflect the rich heritage and diverse techniques of Karnataka’s weaving communities.

Ragi Kana: A Haven for Handmade Craft

Ragi Kana is a joint initiative of Gram Seva Sangh and the Hulkul Muniswamappa and Munivenkatamma Charitable Trust. For the past seven years, it has been dedicated to providing sustainable and decent livelihoods for individuals engaged in handmade occupations, including potters, weavers, smiths, agriculturists, and other skilled rural artisans. The venue, located at the Sri Ramakrishna Samagra Shikshana Kendra School Campus, off Bannerghatta Road near the Decathlon sports shop in Gottigere, Bengaluru, operates as a vibrant weekend santhe and discussion forum, celebrating and promoting the richness of handmade crafts.

Santhe Timings and Culinary Delights

Ragi Kana’s santhe runs from 10 AM to 4 PM, offering a bustling marketplace where naturally grown groceries, vegetables, handicrafts, food items, and books are sold directly by producers. Visitors can also indulge in a variety of delicious snacks and lunch options available on-site.

Join the Celebration

Handloom Day at Ragi Kana is more than just an exhibition; it is a celebration of Karnataka’s rich weaving heritage and the artisans who sustain this timeless craft. Whether you’re a handloom enthusiast, a supporter of sustainable living, or simply curious about the art of weaving, this event offers something for everyone. Come, interact with the weavers, learn their stories, participate in hands-on workshops, and take home a piece of Karnataka’s vibrant handloom tradition.

Mark your calendars for August 4, 2024, and join us at Ragi Kana for a day of learning, interaction, and celebration of handmade crafts.