Designers have recently discovered khadi as a creative canvas because of its elegant simplicity, porous nature and its ability to stay cool during summer and warm during winter.
Khadi however, is not a new fabric. It has its roots deep within the freedom struggle. Mahatma Gandhi- the father of the nation, along with ahimsa or non violence also propogated simplicity of living, sans paraphernalia and extravagance. He always worked for the empowerment of the poor, and it was in these conditions that the khadi fabric emerged as part of the 1958 khadi institution. It provided employment to the poor. The current annual production is in the range of Rs 700-1000 crores.
What makes khadi different from other fabrics is that no two products are the same. Since it is handwoven, disparities are bound to occur but it is these very disparities which makes each product eclectic and gives it exclusivity value for which people are willing to pay. Also, khadi gets softer with each wash, without degrading its quality. It is very long lasting.
The spread of khadi is beneficial on many levels- it is economically viable, eco friendly, practical, helps in the growth of poor artisans and is aesthetically appealing.
The current leading stores retailing khadi products are Khadi India or Khadi Bharat, Sarvodaya, Desi Ahar, Kutir and Khadi Gramudyog, among others. It is a growing industry and we hope to see it reach grander scales nationwide as well as internationally.
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