Sharan Village in Himachal Pradesh Becomes a Hub for Handloom Crafts

Mumbai, August 7: Sharan village, located in the Rumsu Panchayat of the Naggar region near Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, is now recognized for its exquisite handloom craftsmanship. In 2020, the Ministry of Textiles designated it as a ‘Handloom Village’. This recognition has opened new avenues for employment and income, particularly for local artisans, especially women.

A survey conducted by the Ministry of Textiles revealed that approximately 95% of the homes in Sharan village are built in the traditional Katha-Kuni style, with many residents already engaged in handloom weaving. This foundation led to the village being granted the handloom status.

One local artisan shared, “Handloom weaving has been a tradition in our family for generations. We typically start learning this craft around the age of 14 or 15.”

Previously, the shawls, caps, and other woolen products made in the village were solely for personal use. However, the scenario has changed dramatically.

Artisans report that with the support of self-help groups, they secured a shop in the village. This development allowed their work to expand significantly.

They noted, “Around 2020, 20 to 25 individuals received 45 days of training. Now, women can earn between 10,000 to 15,000 rupees a month.”

Following the establishment of the shop, a variety of products such as shawls, stoles, blankets, mufflers, and various crochet items began to be produced. Artisans now create products tailored to tourist preferences.

Another artisan explained, “Earlier, we made blankets only for personal use. Since the handloom building and shop opened, we’ve started producing them for sale. This has opened up a new source of income for us. We observe what tourists like and produce accordingly.”

A female artisan added, “With the training and handloom support, we began making shawls, stoles, mufflers, and crochet items. This has greatly benefited us. Previously, we only made items for ourselves, but now we are earning income from our craft.”

This government initiative has given a new identity to the traditional art of Sharan village. What was once a home-based activity is now connected to the marketplace. This shift has not only empowered women but also bolstered the village’s economy.