Khadi is back in fashion: Designer Khushboo Agarwal at Make in India Fashion Summit
Designer Khusboo Agarwal said, "Khadi has been neglected for years." She dispelled myths associated with khadi that it can only be worn in summers, can only have cotton blends and was introduced by Gandhi.
In Short
- Khadi has been neglected for years: Khushboo
- She dispelled myths associated with khadi
- The kids come up with new designs and technology, she said.
At the Mail Today Fashion Summit on Wednesday, AK Garg, deputy director, marketing and exports (I/C), KVIC, and Khushboo Agarwal, creative head, Ritu Beri Designs, focused on the gradual climb of khadi on the global platform and benefits of the boom in khadi industry, and even dispelled myths related to the material.
Explaining that khadi was aptly termed 'vichitra vastra' because it isn't just fabric, but a 'serious thought', Agarwal said, "Khadi has been neglected for years, but it's fashionable now because it's being blended with silk and cotton while retaining its qualities, which gives it a global image. We are using Indo-Western silhouettes, giving khadi a modern flavour while retaining the signature designs."
MYTHS ABOUT KHADI
She dispelled myths associated with khadi that it can only be worn in summers, can only have cotton blends and was introduced by Gandhi. Pointing out that the khadi industry generates a huge number of employment, Garg said KVIC is taking multiple steps to promote the material.
"We are providing lots of facilities to artisans, including setting up workshops for them at their native villages, besides coming upwith other schemes such as providing them with Rs 1,200 per month for their child's education and Rs 25 lakh loan facility. We are also making sure that there are no middlemen involved in the payment procedure of artisans."
The duo said this support is encouraging youngsters to take up the art as a profession. "The kids come up with new designs and technology, which also helps propel khadi in the global market," Garg added.
Also Read: Digital payments will ensure labourers get minimum wage, says Smriti Irani