Venkatagiri Handloom Weaving: Traditions, Techniques and Contemporary Challenges

Abstract

Abstract

The Venkatagiri handloom tradition in Andhra Pradesh stands as a monumental Indian artisanal craft comprising delicate cotton and silk sarees with elaborate zari borders and Jamdani supplementary weft motifs. The paper aims to analyze in depth the socio-cultural milieu of the craft, its history dating back to royal patronage, raw materials and tools, and weaving techniques particular to this region. It also offers a critical line of discussion about the present-day challenges faced due to labour shortage, increased raw material prices, and market competition posed by powerlooms, alongside developments which include digital marketing, design collaboration, and cooperative development to promote the craft. Drawing from socio-economic studies and sectoral innovation approaches, this paper argues for a middle road between conservation and modernization for the future sustenance of the Venkatagiri handlooms in the global artisanal economy.

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