SOUL SPIN - GETTING TO KNOW THE WEAVERS

Travelling through Tamil Nadu in search of weavers to source sarees for a boutique called Madhurya at The Art of Living International Centre. I got the opportunity to visit some of the interior most villages and homes of the weavers. 

Surrounded by peaceful and green paddy fields, the traditional weavers are also farmers, who have been practicing the art of weaving sarees for generations. Waiting for the crops to harvest, they would invest their time on the loom creating masterpieces. 

The weavers house would have a small shed for cows, pet dogs and hens and other structures like stone grinders and water well in the verandah or open courtyard in front of the house. Every weaver's house that we visited had a small room where he would show his collection that he and his family had woven. It was enlightening to see their skills and mastery over the loom. Such intricate patterns and motifs are no easy task yet they designed so effortlessly without any certified qualification. Weaving is a legacy and these weavers are the true face of India's handloom industry.

Some weavers were kind enough to show their workshop to us. They had huge space with looms and vibrant silk threads hanging from the ceiling, this is where their family would sit and weave fine silk sarees and tapestry. 

It was a humbling experience to realise that such brightly coloured and brilliant pieces of art, that look so charming in flashy showrooms have ordinary beginnings.

On my way back to Bangalore city in the cab, feeling overwhelmed and awed, I wrote this small poem:

Colours on wheels,

Spun together in love.

Weaving magic with joy,

From the clouds of sky.

When the Fabric of life comes ALIVE!

Copyright @ Kannu Priya