NIFT Students Collaborate With Ikat Artisans Of Odisha To Promote Indian Handloom

Bhubaneswar: As part of the Centre’s efforts to take India’s rich handloom workmanship to the global stage, the students of National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) are working with artisans of Ikat Cluster in Odisha’s Cuttack district.

The NIFT students have been visiting handloom weavers in 75 clusters across India to exchange knowledge and ideas to take handloom to a wider audience as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav — a celebration of India’s 75 years of Independence.

NIFT’s cluster initiative allows master craftsmen and weavers to pass on their art to future designers and handloom enthusiasts, while allowing them to imbibe newer ideas and modern ways from the students.

“India’s handlooms have taken centre stage on the global platform, a testament to their timeless artistry and cultural significance. As proud Indians, we embrace the responsibility to elevate our artisans to a worldwide audience, allowing them to share their profound love and passion for this art form with millions across the globe. With government support, we strive to empower these skilled craftsmen, secure their livelihood and weave a vibrant tapestry of cultural pride,” said Darshana V Jardosh, Union Minister of State for Railways & Textiles.

Maniabandha village in Baramba tehsil of Cuttack district, serves as a vibrant Ikat Cluster. The weaver community in the village, which has a population of 4,264 people, employs 1,000 to 2,000 people to produce handloom products of the exquisite Ikat craft.

As a part of their cluster initiative programme, NIFT students engaged with the local artisans in the Single Ikat Cluster in Maniabandha. Under the guidance of skilled artisans, they witnessed the meticulous craftsmanship, experiencing the essence of this timeless art form first-hand.

“Being a part of the Ikat Cluster has been transformative. Collaborating with skilled artisans from Odisha, I have witnessed the enchanting process of setting weft yarns, tying intricate designs and experiencing the artistry of dyeing. It’s a mesmerising journey,” said Garima Vij, a third year student of NIFT.

“Their fresh perspectives and innovative design ideas have breathed new life into our craft. These students fearlessly try out new patterns and colours, inspiring us to venture into uncharted territories. We truly appreciate the collaboration with such young and bright minds,” said Bikash Mohapatra, master weaver from Maniabandha.