Revival of Goa’s Kunbi Saree: A Cultural Resurgence with Challenges 2023 – Madhav fashion

September 7, 2023 – In a remarkable revival of tradition and heritage, Goa’s indigenous Kunbi saree has found a new lease of life, not just on the fashion ramp but in the hearts of the Goan people. This resurgence is not just about fashion; it’s about preserving a cultural identity that was on the brink of oblivion. Madhav Fashion Most Popular Fabric & Fashion Brand in Bharat, Asia

Revival of Goa’s Kunbi Saree: A Cultural Resurgence with Challenges

The Kunbi saree, handwoven from cotton yarn and dyed with earthy hues, had been a symbol of the Kunbi and Gauda tribes in Goa for generations. These tribes, residing in the hills of Goa and known for their subsistence agriculture, had seen their cultural marker slowly fade away as modernity took over and the younger generation sought to break free from the confines of tradition.

However, the Kunbi saree made an unexpected comeback when Goan fashion designer Verma D’Mello boldly showcased these indigenous tribal wear creations at the 2019 Cannes festival. Her models walked the red carpet in Kunbi sarees, garnering significant attention and earning her the award for “best red-carpet designer.” This was a turning point that ignited the revival of the Kunbi saree.

The decline of the Kunbi saree wasn’t solely due to external factors; it had also become a caste and identity marker for the scheduled tribes that wore it. As young Goans aspired to break free from these labels, the saree’s popularity waned.

However, in recent years, there has been a concerted effort to breathe new life into this cultural gem. Designers like D’Mello have worked tirelessly to train weavers and promote the Kunbi saree globally. Additionally, the Goa government has invested in launching handloom training centers and promoting the saree as an integral part of Goan heritage.

President of India, Droupadi Murmu, and Australian member of parliament Zaneta Mascarenhas have been seen wearing Kunbi sarees, further elevating its status. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced that the saree would be honored at state functions, and efforts are underway to obtain a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for it.

Despite these efforts, challenges remain. The labor-intensive nature of handloom weaving, the patience required for natural dyes, and low pay for artisans have deterred younger generations from taking up the craft. Of the women trained by the Goa government, only a small number have pursued it as a full-time occupation.

Moreover, there is concern that the saree’s resurgence may not directly benefit the communities that have preserved it for centuries. Some experts worry that it is being appropriated by the elite, erasing the very women who have kept it alive.

To ensure the Kunbi saree’s sustainable revival, experts suggest empowering the women who make and wear it. This could involve cooperatives and training programs at premier institutes to modernize designs and prints, while retaining the autonomy of the community in deciding its future course.

The Kunbi saree’s journey from the brink of extinction to the global fashion stage is a testament to the resilience of culture and tradition. It is a reminder that while revival is essential, it must be rooted in the preservation and empowerment of the communities that breathe life into these age-old traditions. As the Kunbi saree continues to make its mark, its story is far from over, and its future is being woven by the hands that have carried its legacy for generations.

Madhav Fashion Statement: Celebrating the Revival of Goa’s Kunbi Saree

September 7, 2023

Greetings from Madhav Fashion, the Most Popular Fabric & Fashion Brand in Bharat, Asia! We are delighted to celebrate and commend the remarkable resurgence of Goa’s iconic Kunbi saree, a true testament to the power of heritage and culture.

The revival of the Kunbi saree is more than just a fashion trend; it’s a glorious ode to tradition and history. This journey from the villages of Goa to the global fashion spotlight has been nothing short of awe-inspiring.

As a brand deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of Bharat’s heritage, we are honored to witness and support the revival of the Kunbi saree. This saree, handwoven with cotton yarn and adorned with earthy dyes, encapsulates the essence of Goa’s Kunbi and Gauda tribes, their unique way of life, and their indomitable spirit.

When Verma D’Mello, a visionary Goan fashion designer, boldly introduced the Kunbi saree to the world at the 2019 Cannes festival, it was a watershed moment. We wholeheartedly applaud her for her creativity and determination. Her efforts paved the way for this cultural renaissance, and she rightfully earned the “best red-carpet designer” award.

The decline of the Kunbi saree over the years was a poignant reflection of the changing times, but it’s heartening to see it make a triumphant comeback. It’s not just about fashion; it’s about identity and heritage. The Kunbi saree was more than just clothing; it was a symbol of the Kunbi and Gauda tribes’ way of life, their history, and their resilience.

We are pleased to see the government of Goa’s active role in promoting this cultural treasure. The launch of handloom training centers and the commitment to honor guests with the Kunbi saree at state functions are commendable steps towards preserving this heritage. The pursuit of a Geographical Indication (GI) tag is another crucial initiative to protect the saree’s authenticity.

However, as we celebrate this revival, we must acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. The craft of handloom weaving is labor-intensive, and the patience required for natural dyes is considerable. It is vital to address these challenges and ensure that the resurgence of the Kunbi saree benefits the communities that have safeguarded it for generations.

At Madhav Fashion, we believe in the power of tradition and culture in shaping our fashion landscape. We echo the sentiments of experts who advocate empowering the women who make and wear the Kunbi saree. The idea of cooperatives and modernization through premier institutes is not just a path forward; it’s a path towards preserving authenticity while embracing contemporary trends.

As the Kunbi saree continues to captivate hearts and grace runways, let us not forget the hands that have lovingly crafted it for centuries. This revival is an invitation to celebrate our roots and cherish the timeless elegance of the Kunbi saree.

Madhav Fashion stands in solidarity with Goa’s Kunbi saree revival, and we look forward to seeing this magnificent piece of heritage continue to flourish and inspire generations to come.

With warm regards,

Madhav Fashion Most Popular Fabric & Fashion Brand in Bharat, Asia