Generation Relevant: Once limited to ethnic attire, Khadi & Silk will be made into western wear
To popularise the use of natural fabrics like silk and khadi among millennials, the state government is planning to give a contemporary look to garments made from them.
Bhagyashree Banayat, managing director, Maharashtra State Handlooms Corporation Limited, said the younger generation was shifting away from silk and khadi. Hence, the corporation is planning to rope in fashion designers to design and popularize clothing like mini skirts and midis made from this cloth. They are also planning to develop a blend of khadi and silk to make it more durable, affordable and appealing.
"Our traditional fabrics are of good quality but they have failed to make an appeal to the younger generation. To popularise silk and khadi among the youth, it is necessary to make them relevant for this generation. This will preserve the legacy of traditional weaves, better earnings for traditional weavers and artisans and also ensure that these benefits trickle down to farmers and sericulturists," she added.
Banayat, who is also the state's director for sericulture, said that the corporation planned to rope in fashion designers to design these clothes. Stakeholder consultations will also be conducted. The handloom corporation is also planning to develop a blend of silk and khadi. "Pure silk is costly, so is pure cotton. Mixing the two may make the cloth more durable and reduce costs," she explained.
The state handloom corporation, mediates between handloom weavers and the market, by supplying raw material like thread and purchasing finished products, will use its channels to market these products.
The corporation is planning to open up franchise opportunities for private parties to market their products. It is looking at launching sale outlets in post offices where its staff will sell products like shirts, sarees, shawls, scarves, stoles, bed and cushion covers and handicrafts.
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