Khadi is more than just a fabric; it's a symbol of India's rich heritage, its struggle for independence, and its commitment to sustainability.
Khadi is a cloth made from cotton, silk, or
wool fibers that are handspun on a spinning wheel called a charkha and
then handwoven on a loom. A natural fabric Free from chemical processes, making it
hypoallergenic and eco-friendly. A versatile fabric and can be used to create a
wide range of clothing and home textiles.
India has a long history of textile production, with cotton being a staple crop. Khadi gained prominence during India's struggle for independence under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. It became a symbol of self-reliance and resistance against British colonial rule. While its popularity declined after independence, there has been a resurgence of interest in recent
Cotton Cultivation: Organic
cotton is often used for khadi production.
Hand Spinning: Cotton
fibers are spun into yarn using a charkha.
Hand Weaving: The yarn is
then woven into fabric on a handloom.
Dyeing (Optional): Natural
dyes are often used to color the fabric.
Finishing: The fabric is
washed, dried, and sometimes starched.
The entire process is
environmentally friendly, with minimal water and energy consumption. Supports
rural livelihoods and empowers artisans. Hypoallergenic and beneficial for
sensitive skin. Khadi has evolved from its traditional image and is now
available in contemporary designs.
Hand-spun and handwoven fabric is
more expensive to produce compared to machine-made fabrics. Facing
competition from cheaper, machine-made fabrics. Not widely available in retail
stores.
However, there is a growing
demand for sustainable and ethical fashion, which presents opportunities for
the khadi industry.
Many designers and fashion brands
are incorporating khadi into their collections, giving it a contemporary
appeal.The Indian government has been promoting khadi through various
initiatives. Khadi is gaining popularity
worldwide as a symbol of sustainable luxury.
Based on Fiber, weave and
finish khadi are classified as below
Khadi Cotton: The most
common type, known for its softness, breathability, and durability.
Khadi Silk: Luxurious and
elegant, with a subtle sheen. It can be further classified into Matka Silk,
Tussar Silk, and Mulberry Silk.
Khadi Wool: Warm and cozy,
perfect for winter wear. Pashmina is a premium type of khadi wool.
Muslin Khadi: A fine,
lightweight variety known for its sheerness.
Calico Khadi: A coarser,
heavier weight khadi with a distinct texture.
Handloom Khadi: Traditionally
woven on handlooms, offering a unique charm.
Printed Khadi: Khadi
fabric with various printing techniques like block printing or screen printing.
Embroidered Khadi: Khadi
with intricate embroidery work, adding elegance