Indian textiles are among the most prominent features of the country’s culture. India has a long history of creating some of the world’s most stunning and complex textiles. Every Indian area has its unique textile traditions, from the vivid colours of Rajasthan to the intricate weaves of Varanasi.
Here are 5 places that are pure heaven for textile lovers
1. Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaipur is a city where the past and present meet, with a new generation of talented designers combining traditional designs with modern shapes. One thing is certain: from the block-printed cotton shirts, skirts and quilts to the bandhani kurtas and leheriya saris, you’ll be loaded with choices.
2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi is a must-visit on every list of popular textile places. It is a paradise for all things Indian textiles, from beautiful zari embroidery to the eponymous silk sari. Sheer is popular, and if you like something light and simple, try the Jamdani weave, which is also offered in the city.
3. Kutch, Gujarat
If you’ve heard of Kutch, the Gujarat area known for its salt desert, you’ve probably heard of its rich textile culture, which includes vivid Kutchi embroidery, precise patchwork and the popular ajrakh pattern, which is now making its way into new-age clothing.
4. Kolkata, West Bengal
Since the British era, Kolkata, or Calcutta as it was formerly known, has dominated India’s textile industry. The city is well-known for producing handloom textiles such as jamdani and muslin, which were once highly prized by traders from Europe. A visit to Kolkata’s renowned New Market and Gariahat will allow you to see a broad range of handloom textiles and sarees from various parts of West Bengal.
5. Pochampally, Telangana
Pochampally, a small town in Telangana, is well-known for its Ikat textiles. These textiles are characterised by the unique designs made by resist-dyeing the yarns before weaving. A trip to Pochampally will take you to the famed Pochampally Handloom Park, which was founded to preserve and promote the traditional Ikat weaving method.
