Monthly Archives: April 2025

There has been a change in how people perceive fashion over the last few years. People are now opting for ethical, sustainable and conscious fashion rather than speedy and mass-made clothes. Whether to opt for handmade or powerloom clothing is now a widely debated topic. It’s no longer just clothes—it’s now about culture, identity and responsibility.

India boasts a glorious legacy of hand-tailored clothes. From Kanjeevaram to Chikankari, from Pashmina to Bandhani, each province has a tale to tell through its fabrics. On the contrary, powerloom products cater to a fast-paced market. They are fast, inexpensive and readily accessible.

So, are handmade and powerloom garments different? Is one superior to the other in terms of quality and sustainability? Let’s find out.

Understanding

A Rich Heritage Woven in Print

The art of block printing is one of the most enduring and celebrated textile traditions in the Indian subcontinent. With origins dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization around 2500 BCE, this technique involves intricately carved wooden blocks used to stamp patterns on fabrics. Over the centuries, block printing evolved regionally, giving rise to iconic styles like the vivid Sanganeri and Bagru prints of Rajasthan, the geometric Ajrakh of Gujarat, and the earthy, narrative-rich Kalamkari of Andhra Pradesh. Each region’s unique motifs, color schemes, and symbols tell stories of local myths, daily life, flora and fauna, or seasonal festivals.

Historically, block-printed fabrics were more than just garments—they were visual expressions of identity,

Two years ago, a silent revolution was initiated in the core of India’s digital arena—one that sought to bring back centuries-old traditions, livelihood support and handcrafted heritage to the fingertips of contemporary consumers. Indiahandmade, a flagship project of the Ministry of Textiles, was launched with the single-minded vision of empowering artisans and weavers across the nation. Designed and developed by Digital India Corporation, under the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY), Indiahandmade.com is not merely an e-commerce site—it is a national mission to conserve, promote and drive India’s rich handloom and handicraft

A Journey Through Time: Cotton in the Indian Subcontinent

The story of cotton in India is as old as civilization itself. The Indus Valley Civilization (circa 3000 BCE) is credited with some of the earliest known uses of cotton in human history. Archaeological finds from sites like Mohenjo-Daro have revealed fragments of cotton fibers, indicating that ancient Indians were spinning, weaving, and wearing cotton garments over 5,000 years ago.

Cotton was not just a fabric—it was a cornerstone of Indian culture and economy. Ancient texts and travelers’ accounts often mention the fine cotton textiles produced in regions like Bengal, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu. Indian cotton was highly sought after by ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Rome, and later by traders from

Summer in India is a celebration of light, colour and vibrance. From the bright sarees to the light cotton kurtis, everything exudes the happiness of the season. And what’s better than adding a splash of colour around your neck to complete your summer attire? A handmade gemstone necklace is that one piece. It can elevate your style, mood and energy in mere seconds.

Gemstones have always occupied a special place in Indian tradition. Not only for their beauty, but for their meaning and power too. From the courts of kings to the fashion ramps of today, gemstones never go out of style. Nowadays, with the renewed interest in handmade goods, the magic of handmade gemstone necklaces is gaining popularity once again.

Let us take you on a journey where summer fashion and earthy craftsmanship

India has a rich textile heritage. One of the most prevalent yet overlooked handloom items is the cotton gamcha. This humble, light fabric is not only a utility product but also an emblem of sustainability and craftsmanship. Worn through generations, the handloom gamcha is both culturally and economically significant.

With increasing awareness about environmental footprints and the demand for sustainable solutions, the gamcha has become a popular option for many. This blog delves into why the pure cotton gamcha is an environmentally friendly, long-lasting and versatile solution for everyday use.

What is a Gamcha?

A gamcha is a handwoven cotton towel, an age-old Indian product. It is extensively used in India, Bangladesh and South Asia. It is light in weight, absorbent

Ram Navami, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, marks the birth of Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Celebrated on the ninth day of Chaitra Navratri, this auspicious occasion falls on April 6, 2025. The festival symbolizes the triumph of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (unrighteousness), as depicted in the epic Ramayana. It is not just a celebration of the birth of Lord Rama but a reminder of his virtues—truth, humility, and devotion.

Historically, Ram Navami has been a cornerstone of Hindu culture, bringing communities together through prayers, recitations, and processions. Temples are beautifully decorated,