Kutch’s Bhujodi Shawls Find Growing Demand In US, Global Markets

GANDHINAGAR-Bhujodi, a village in Gujarat’s Kutch district, has carved a distinct identity for itself as its traditional handloom shawls and other products gain recognition in global markets, including the US.

The handloom weaving tradition, dating back about 500 years, remains alive as local artisans continue the age-old craft, passing their skills from one generation to the next.

Artisans handle the entire process manually, from spinning yarn to weaving shawls, sarees and ‘dupattas’ featuring traditional and innovative designs on handlooms.

The craft has continued to flourish with support from the Gujarat government through exhibitions, marketing assistance and promotional initiatives that have helped artisans expand their reach.

Handloom artisan Vishram Valji Vankar said that weaving has long been a tradition in Bhujodi village.

“Our fellow Vankars, also known as Meghwals, carry out this weaving work, a craft that has been practiced since the time of our forefathers,” he said.

While Bhujodi produces a range of handloom products, the Kutchhi shawl has gained particular prominence and recognition.

Crafted on handlooms using raw wool, Pashmina or black cotton dyed with natural colours, the Kutchhi shawl received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2010.

The handloom products are made with the participation of about 350 artisans and women in Bhujodi and are exported to more than 18 countries, including the US, Japan and Germany.

National Award-winning weaver Gabhubhai Vankar said the GI tag has helped protect the traditional craft from imitation.

Weavers from Bhujodi have won more than 50 national and international awards for their distinctive handloom artistry.(IANS)