Looms of the Land : A Craft Research Initiative by NIFT Gandhinagar & Development Commissioner (Handlooms & Handicrafts)

The "Looms of the Land" saree collection speaks of traditional artisanship and contemporary design sensibilities, emerging from the collaborative efforts between the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Gandhinagar, and the Development Commissioner (Handlooms & Handicrafts). This project serves as a cornerstone initiative through NIFT’s Craft-based modules, designed to provide students with invaluable real-world

exposure while fostering deeper connections with India's rich textile heritage.

At the heart of this endeavour lies the Sahri weaving cluster in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, renowned for its traditional cotton weaving. The selection of this cluster was deliberate, chosen based on NIFT's proposal to document and revitalize undocumented crafts, ensuring that these precious traditions receive the recognition and preservation they deserve. The project exemplifies the true spirit of co-creation, where the authentic voice of artisans harmoniously blends with the fresh perspectives of design students. Through an immersive experience, five dedicated students from the Textile Design Department, B.Des Program, Batch 2021–2025 Shreya Mohod, Srishti Srivastav, Mrunal Waghmode, Yogita Tejvani, and Shreya Chitlange lived alongside the artisans in Sahri village, creating a unique learning ecosystem. This academic requirement evolved into a profound exchange where students contributed through market research, fashion trend analysis, and colour expertise, while artisans shared their generational wisdom of weaving and handloom techniques.

THE COLLECTION

The collection's conceptual foundation rests on the theme "Dawn to Dusk," a

poetic reflection of the two primary occupations that define Sahri's identity,

agriculture and weaving. This theme beautifully captures the cyclical nature of

rural life, translating into five distinct sarees, each embodying a specific moment in this daily journey: Srishti's "Dawn," Mrunal's "First Light," Yogita's "Noon," Shreya Mohod's "Twilight," and Shreya Chitlange's "Shadowfall."

The "Looms of the Land" collection emerges as more than beautiful textiles, it represents hope for communities who have wondered if their traditional skills would find a place in modern India. This partnership ensures that ancient techniques thrive, providing artisans with enhanced skills, financial stability, and the profound assurance that their craft remains valued and essential to our cultural future.

Acknowledgments

Students : Mrunal Waghmode, Shreya Chitlange, Shreya Mohod, Srishti Srivastav, Yogita Tejvani

Faculty : Dr. Shubhangi Yadav, Associate Professor, Textile Design Dept. (Faculty Mentor) & Ms. Rupali Pandit, Associate Professor, Textile Design Dept. (Faculty Mentor)

Institutional & Sponsorship Acknowledgements:

1. Prof. Dr. Sameer Sood, Director, NIFT Gandhinagar (For support and encouragement)

2. NIFT Gandhinagar (Institution)

3. Development Commissioner (Handlooms & Handicrafts) (Sponsor)

Artisans:

Master Weavers: Aslam and Mohd. Khalil

Weaver: Jamal Ansari

Kriti by Sustain-A-Verse is grateful to NIFT Gandhinagar team and Development Commissioner (Handlooms & Handicrafts) for this feature.

A special thanks to Shreya Mohod for coordinating the entire collaboration.

Kriti Team: Manasvi Agarwal, Manoswita Das Sarma, Chahat Wahi, Sumana Mukherjee

Looms of the Land has also been featured in Kriti Magazine's Handloom Edit

Kriti Magazine Aug 2025 : The Handloom Edit

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