‘I am weaving for last 20 years in C’garh’

 

 

 

“I am weaving for last 20 years in Chhattisgarh. Earlier we used to work with money lenders. At that time, we used to get less money, and we had to face many problems. But since I have joined Kosala, the income has increased and the Kosa silk thread and other weaving needs are being met easily. Hindalco has brought many changes in the lives of us weavers. Now we are earning more and are also able to save,” says 38 years old weaver Sundar Lal Devangan/Dewangan. Kosala Livelihood and Social foundation is a not-for-profit social enterprise, a subsidiary of Hindalco Industries, metals flagship of the Aditya Birla Group. Kosala is committed to empowering the Kosa silk weavers of Chhattisgarh. He was expressing his views at ‘Tana-Bana Samaroh’ a felicitation function organised by Kosala on Monday at Chanpa for the members of the Kosala community, including weavers, dyers and Kosa yarn manufacturers.

 

They were recognised for their valuable contributions to Kosa art form. A total of 23 contributors were felicitated in the event by CEO, Speciality Alumina & Chemicals Business cum Director-Kosala Saurabh Khedekar. Acknowledging their work Khedekar said, “we treat you as family, and your contribution towards this ancient art craft is phenomenal. Together we will take this to the next level and we are fully committed to change the future of Kosa weaving.” This is an initiative to empower the Kosa silk craft cluster of Chhattisgarh and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities. We are committed to keeping the traditional practices alive, all processes humane, just, and ecologically balanced. Through Kosala, we aim to augment economic opportunities for the artisans and give them a global platform to showcase their excellence and impeccable artistry in creating products which have a timeless appeal. Beautifully designed and handwoven Sarees, dupattas and stoles from Kosa silk of Chhattisgarh, he added.

 

Tana Bana Samaroh also highlighted the cultural significance of Kosa weaving with a stunning kathak dance performance by Maulshree Singh, a renowned Kathak exponent for Raigarh Gharana, captivating the audience with her graceful artistry. In her address to the audience, CEO- Kosala Neeta Shah, said: “Tana Bana is our way of recognising the tireless efforts of artisans and celebrating their craft. The event also marked the four-year journey of collaboration with the Kosa artisan community, showcasing the progress made in creating sustainable livelihood and promoting the rich heritage of Kosa handloom. Dy Director of Chhattisgarh State Sericulture Department, Raipur SK Kohlekar, Assistant director, Weavers Service Centre-Raigarh R S Gokhle, Shishir Misra, Jt. President- Specialty Alumina Business, Hindalco, and others were present at the event.