Celebrating India’s Craft Traditions and the Revival of Banaras Brocades With Chandra Jain | Ep 186

In this captivating podcast episode, we dive into the world of traditional Indian craftsmanship with Chandra Jain, a fervent advocate for the preservation of Banaras handwoven brocades. Her transformative journey from skepticism to activism reveals a deep commitment to maintaining ancient weaving techniques and protecting artisan well-being against commercial pressures.

We explore the environmental benefits of handlooms, contrasted with the harmful impact of power looms, and discuss the Crafts Council of Karnataka’s efforts to safeguard diverse crafts. The episode teases an upcoming exhibition at Artisans Art Gallery, showcasing the exquisite work of Banaras weavers using natural dyes, set to enchant art aficionados in Bombay. Through Chandra’s stories and the discussion on crafts, we’re reminded of the importance of sustaining India’s rich cultural heritage and the narratives of its artisans for future generations.