Much decorated hero of Gurkha regiment Bhanubhakta Gurung was born in September 1921 at Phalpa, in western Nepal, and joined the 2nd Gurkhas in 1940. He saw service in the First Chindit operation in 1943 which destroyed Japanese assets in Myanmar. As Rifleman, Gurung and his Battalion had advanced to Central Myanmar. The road ahead was dominated by a hill feature known as ‘Point 582’. The 2nd Gurkhas ‘A’ Company, were in position at Point 582. That night the Japanese attacked, killing half the Gurkhas on it; leaving the remainder completely out of ammunition. The following day ‘B’ Company of…
Author: shubhangi
Architect of Camlin’s legacy “My best learning from life is that it is necessary to acquire new knowledge/technique and skill every day from formal and informal sources available to you and should never be content with what you have achieved and aspire to the greater height in your life”. Subhash Dandekar was the creative mind behind the iconic stationery company Camlin, who introduced colour to the Indian masses. Showing off expensive compass boxes with buttons or a steel geometry box complete with sketch pens and math boxes, was one of the treasures of childhood during the 1980s and 1990s. Many people have pleasant recollections of Camlin for their time in school. It makes one wonder how many lives Subhash Dandekar touched. Subhash got an inheritance as well as a business. In 1931, D.P. and G.P. Dandekar, brothers, established the business as Dandekar & Co., beginning with Horse Brand tablets and powders for ink. They soon started manufacturing Camel stamp ink for fountain pens. In 1946, the business received recognition as a private enterprise. After pursuing undergraduate degree in chemistry…
A rock solid pillar of Gwalior Gharana “You cannot simply become a good singer by copying your guru. You need to make additions to what you are learning” — Vidhushi Malini Rajurkar Vidhushi Malini Rajurkar was a classical singer belonging to the Gwalior Gharana, believed to be among the oldest schools of Hindustani classical music. Born in Ajmer, Rajasthan, where she spent her formative years, after graduating in mathematics, she taught it for three years at the same Savitri Girl’s High School & College. It didn’t seem to be going in tune with the promise Malini showed as a talented vocalist, encouraged…
Listing measures that could preserve the country’s rich handloom heritage, Ritika Seth asserts that encouraging responsible sourcing and transparent supply chains enables consumers to identify certified handloom products originating from reliable sources committed to socially conscious business practices. Educators can play a significant role in training younger generations in preserving traditions and cultivating entrepreneurial skills necessary for independent sustainability. India’s handloom heritage is an amalgamation of its rich cultural history, craftsmanship, and artistic expression. This heritage is not just about creating beautiful textiles; it encapsulates centuries of tradition, regional diversity, and the spirit of communities. Preserving this legacy for future…
Handloom weaving holds immense cultural value in India, playing vital roles in social customs and rituals. Tracing the genesis of handloom craft in India, Nandini Rao observes that today it continues to be celebrated — domestically and internationally — for its craftsmanship, diversity, and sustainable practices. Each region offers unique textiles characterised by distinct weaving techniques, patterns, and motifs, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage. Throughout human history, clothing has always served not only practical purposes but also artistic ones. Handloom weaving has played a pivotal role in satisfying these two needs since ancient times. India boasts some of the…
Indian handloom textiles narrate histories bound together with traditions, faith, passion, and innovation transcending geographic boundaries. Each region possesses distinctive characteristics defining it culturally and economically impacting its people profoundly. Anushka Singh takes a long look at handloom craft flourished in different states with a culture of its own and says each is in a class of its own. Indian handlooms occupy an important space in the country’s culture and heritage, serving not just as fashion accessories but also as embodiments of regional pride and identity. With a legacy spanning thousands of years, handloom weaving has flourished and diversified across…
The handloom industry plays a vital role in providing sustainable employment, stimulating local economies, and promoting social empowerment. By choosing handloom, one chooses a sustainable and economically beneficial future. Gauravi Patel points out that heritage apart, the traditional craft has a number of economic advantages over mass-produced goods, making them a viable and sustainable choice for consumers. Handlooms, a traditional craft that has been passed down through generations, offer a unique blend of cultural heritage and economic benefits. These wares and textiles, woven by hand, present several economic advantages over mass-produced goods, making them a viable and sustainable choice for…
Harshita Singh applauds the deft artisans who with their adroit fingers create the vibrant handloom magic that comes in myriad forms. The heroes who rarely get their due for their work are the spine of handloom industry that has seen generations pass in their unsurpassed skills. She says the least we can do is to appreciate their artistry, support their livelihoods, and choose handloom textiles that carry the soulful touch of human hands. The skilled artisans who keep the tradition of handloom weaving alive are the backbone of the industry. It’s well known that India’s rich cultural heritage is intricately…
The Indian handloom industry faced with a plethora of challenges, Neeti Prakash makes out a fervent case for the revival and innovation and advocates the collective effort of the government, NGOs, designers, and most importantly, the consumers. By embracing the handloom industry’s potential for innovation while honouring its traditions, one can ensure that this ancient art form continues to thrive and sustain as symbol of country’s artistic heritage. The handloom industry in India is not just symbolic of the country’s artistic capabilities but also a cornerstone of its socio-economic structure. It represents the confluence of tradition and livelihood for millions.…
While on the one hand the discussions have been centering on the challenges faced by the handloom industry and the remedies to overcome, there has been a welcome rejuvenation. Ruchi Verma finds that consumers across the world are now evincing greater interest in handloom textiles for reasons relating to sustainability and cultural relevance. Handloom fashion is making an impact worldwide and how for fusion of style, comfort, durability, and sustainability! In recent times, there has been a resurgence of interest in handloom textiles around the globe. Consumers are increasingly looking for sustainable and culturally relevant clothing options, prompting designers and…