Over 600 years ago, the Meghwal community from Rajasthan migrated to Kachchh, bringing with them the art of handloom weaving. Traditionally, weavers used hand spun yarn provided by Rabaris, a nomadic community of sheep and goat herders.  Weaving was a local art which provided the Kachchh communities with blankets, cloth, and traditional dress.  Kachchh weaving is known for its incorporation of distinctive traditional motifs and colours in medium to heavy weight textiles. The value of Kachchh handlooms exceeds aesthetic appeal; its value is created by the skilled artisans weaving their traditions and way of life as frescoes into each piece.  There are currently 1200 weavers who work in 210 villages in Kachchh; of these, 800-900 practice the craft full time.  Additionally, 2400 women are engaged in preparatory and finishing processes.

Kachchh weaving is known for its incorporation of distinctive traditional motifs and colours

Besides general handlooms, kharad and mashroo are two other specific forms of weaving practiced in Kachchh.  For centuries, kharad rugs have been woven from camel, goat, and sheep wool on traditional nomadic looms which were easily set up and moved throughout the desert.  The rugs’ geometric designs replicate regional patterns and motifs. Handloom mashroo is another time-honoured woven craft which, in Arabic, means “this is allowed.”  This fabric originated in response to a ban on wearing animal products including silk.  Mashroo was created so communities facing the ban were able to wear silk while respecting their tradition.  It is woven with a unique technique that combines colourful silk and cotton.  The cotton is woven into the fabric’s base and is the only material which comes into contact with the skin.  The silk threads are woven into the fabric’s outer layer giving the fabric the look of pure silk.

For more information about Kachchh craft traditions, livelihoods,challenges and opportunities, read about KHAMIR's impact or hear craft stories from Kachchh artisans.