If there is a place on earth where probably 111, yes, one hundred and eleven different weaver communities cohabit at one place, then it is only Shantipur. Besotted in Nadia District of West Bengal and located about 90 kms from Kolkatta, this cluster has carved a niche for itself as a single largest sourcing destination for the trademark Shantipur sarees. With the advent of Mughal Empire, weaving saree at Shantipur got due recognition and production intensified to such an extent that goods began reaching far flung regions like Afghanistan, Iran, Arabia, Greece and Turkey. Weaving activity here was in place since 1409 when Shantipur was ruled by Gaur Ganesh Danu Mardhandev. Pramanik, Kastha, Dalal, Khan among others are well known major weaving communities of this unique cluster. However, weavers’ belonging to Tantuvay community score in numbers. It is generally observed that all weavers of the Shantipur sari cluster inherit excellent weaving skills for weaving sarees on Jacquard looms. Shantipur sarees are woven by weavers possessing traditional skills in jacquard weaving classified in two main categories namely – Tangails and Dhaniakhalis made in fine cotton and silk yarns.
Posted on: Sun, 14 Jul 2013 19:12:52 +0000
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