The Kurto is a long-standing dress within the Gujjar people, particularly rural communities in Jammu and Kashmir. The wool or cotton, knee-length tunic is designed with comfort and flexibility in mind and that of the pastoral and agrarian way of life of the Gujjars. The dress keeps them safe and…

Rathwa women adorn themselves in gaudy ghaghra (Petticoat) along with its vibrant-colored choli (blouses), normally stitched from bright, embroidered fabric. Such clothes often incorporate elaborate intricate designs that showcase the artistic treasure of the tribe. Dressing at such festival…

Festive and post-festive events, creating a cohesive unit of cultural identity through dance and music. Tarpa Dance costumes of Gujarat are vibrant but earthy. As it becomes visible, all the performers of this dance put on their traditional earth-colored costume thereby giving away how closely they…

The importance of Ryndia silk is derived from its cultural, ecological, and economic aspects. Culturally, it is woven into fine designs, sometimes by hand, to impart traditional styles of weaving that have been passed down through various generations. The silk is deeply related to the heritage of…

Women wear white blouses and wrap skirts embroidered with red or maroon thread, accessorizing the ensembles with the help of a waistband made of coins and bamboo tufts. They wear long white scarves on their heads falling down their backs, long bead necklaces, and metal earrings.

Embroidery and topi designing among Gujjars and Bakerwals are accomplished with several materials-obviously woolen threads, beads, and small mirrors. Bright-colored and high-quality threads in shades of red, blue, green, and white are generally employed to create striking designs. The beads and…

The wool textile of Loi has been hand-spun from local sheep fibers giving it a texture thick enough to withstand cold weather. For the thickness of wool, it means cleaning, hand spinning, and weaving; it shows the artisanal tradition unbroken through generations. Some of the Loi blankets are…

Local wool is used to create the Namda and Gabba crafts, which are usually dyed with natural dyes. Namda is produced by felting raw wool layers together to create solid, flat rugs following a long-standing method. Gabba begins with the same woolen core that is embroidered with colored threads,…

Gujjar, Bakerwal, Gaddi, Sippi, Koli, and Shina/Dard tribes of Jammu & Kashmir inhabit a life of pasture and traditional crafts. These tribes, who are mostly herders, have evolved rich cultures that are dependent upon nature and local resources. Wool craft is an important part of their culture…

The Jammu & Kashmir tribes, particularly artisans who are well-versed in the Teli work art, still adhere to craft traditions inherited from their ancestors. Textile artisans have expertise in designing decorations that represent their people's social status, festivities, and…