HYDERABAD: It takes lots of talent and creativity to become a master weaver. Weavers are among the artisans who keep the art of handlooms shining. Handlooms are a significant part of our heritage, and preserving them is a responsibility for every citizen.
This art, which requires hours of meticulous work to create fine clothing, is often overlooked. Despite our discussions about handlooms, many of us still opt for fast fashion. To understand the challenges faced by weavers in preserving this legacy, CE spoke with Bhaskar Vanam, the master weaver at Bhaskar Handlooms, on the occasion of National Handloom Day on August 7.
With nearly 37 years of experience in the handloom industry and weaving pattu sarees, Bhaskar recalls the beginnings of his career. “My native is at Choutuppal, but we have been in LB Nagar for the past 10 years. I started weaving at the age of 12.
I quit for five years due to industry challenges, but then returned, and we have been working in LB Nagar ever since.” Describing the types of weaves produced at their LB Nagar workstation, Bhaskar says, “We mostly create Ikkat weaves using Bangalore silk and mulberry silk. We make Ikkat sarees under the brand name Pochampally Ikkat sarees, along with dupattas and lehengas.
I have 30 members working with me.” Bhaskar highlights the necessity of evolving skills to survive in the industry. “Nowadays, the work has doubled.
Every design needs to be new to attract interest. Even if a design becomes old, we must.