
I was lucky enough to stumble upon these beautifully crafted, ethical and handwoven fabrics from Khadi CIC, by chance the other week. I was so impressed by the unique designs and clearly superb quality. The textures are fabulous and the story behind the manufacture of these special textiles was one that inspired me to write about them. The revolutionary fabric has a long history. The fabrics are made up of cotton, silk, wool or other organic fibres. All originating from India, where the history really began. This revolutionary fabric was born.







RAJASTHAN COLLECTION
The Rajasthan Collection includes khadi from three centers located in different parts of the state – Dausa, Chomu and Bikaner. The collection has been put together by Mishika Enterprises, a social enterprise start up based in Jaipur. They are working in close collaboration with Gram Bharati Samiti (GBS), and a robust network of women’s self-help group which GBS supports.
Way Forward for the Rajasthan Collection
The collection is just a beginning. Looking ahead, there are plans to build on the grassroots strength of GBS to evolve an innovative khadi programme – to be planned, managed and owned by the self-help groups. The initiative hopes to tap into the promise of solar powered spinning wheels and weaving looms. And to build on the rich textile and folk craft traditions of Rajasthan. The experience and expertise of GBS will be a big plus.
Mishika Enterprise
In the meantime, Mishika Enterprise will continue with its efforts to get the best of what is already available for the Rajasthan Collection. They have gained an experience in sourcing khadi over the past year. The learning curve has been steep – looking far and wide to get the right material and fulfilling orders, makeing sure that everything is in place. Taking it in stride when things go wrong – getting it right and learning the right lessons – that is their forte. Mishika Enterprise is keeping aside a part of its profit to help give a kick start to GBS’s khadi initiative. GBS has been a great support for Mishika in its evolution as a social enterprise.


GOPURI COLLECTION
The Gopuri Collection presented here is part of a larger collection curated by Gram Seva Mandal(GSM). Centrally located, it is easy to reach. GSM has an organic farm, khadi and oil crushing units and a printing press. Within GSM there is a strong sense of community and commitment. Life in the community is enriched by their connect with neighboring villages and beyond.
Vinoba
Gram Seva Mandal was established by Vinoba Bhave in the 1930’s. Vinoba was visionary, considered by many as Gandhi’s spiritual heir. He came into prominence in the 1950’s and 60’s when “he went on foot from village to village appealing to landlords to hand over at least one sixth of their land to the landless cultivators of the village.” the tone of his voice was all-important, “it was never condemnatory, never harsh, Gentleness – true Ahimsa -was Vinoba’s trademark. A gentleness backed by a life of such dedication and simplicity that few could listen to his pleading unmoved”. (Hallam Tenyson in Moved by Love)
Gopuri Khadi Unit
Gopuri’s khadi unit is getting a makeover. A seventy year old ginning machine has been replaced. Carding and sliver machines are next in the queue. With new machines in place, GSM will be able to support 300 organic farmers, 180 spinners and 70 weavers. The marketing strategy for their products is innovative. It builds on networks of ethical consumers, friends and family for sales. GSM campaigns on issues of concern such as GM seeds and harmful pesticides. There is a stress on exchange of ideas not just goods and money. There is a stress on experiment, experience and learning.
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