Women in Handloom

In the rhythmic clatter of looms and the intricate dance of hands, a silent revolution is being woven—one thread at a time. Women artisans across India have long been the invisible backbone of the country’s rich textile heritage. From the handloom hubs of Andhra Pradesh to the river islands of Assam, these women are not only preserving centuries-old crafts but also redefining livelihoods and leadership in the artisan sector.   

According to the latest Handloom Census, women constitute over 72% of India’s handloom workforce. That’s over 2.5 million women artisans shaping the fabric of India’s textile legacy. Despite their sheer numbers, their stories often remain untold. In stark contrast, the Indian corporate workforce sees only about 36-37% women representation, with a steep drop in leadership roles. Yet, in the handloom sector, women don’t just participate; they lead, innovate, and transform.    

While millions of women artisans work behind the scenes, some names have broken barriers and gained recognition for their unmatched craftsmanship. 

Rajeshwari Devi: Hailing from Andhra Pradesh, Rajeshwari Devi is a master weaver who has dedicated her life to Pochampalli sarees. Known for their striking geometric patterns and vibrant hues, these sarees require immense precision and skill. Rajeshwari has not only perfected this art but has also trained the next generation of weavers, ensuring that the craft flourishes beyond her loom.  

Ganga Devi: From the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Ganga Devi’s hands weave magic into delicate Chanderi sarees. This traditional weave, known for its lightweight texture and intricate motifs, has been passed down for generations. Ganga Devi stands as a torchbearer, proving that heritage and modernity can co-exist as she experiments with contemporary designs while keeping the traditional essence alive. 

Achoubi Devi: In Imphal East, Achoubi Devi has turned adversity into empowerment. A hereditary widow weaver, she now leads a workshop of over 100 women, giving them financial independence and a sense of purpose. Under her guidance, these women are not only sustaining their families but also reinforcing the cultural identity of Manipuri textiles through their handwoven masterpieces. 

While individual artisans are making waves, several organizations are working at the grassroots level to bring collective impact and sustainable livelihoods to women in the handloom sector.   

Lékopé (Assam): On Majuli Island in Assam, an extraordinary group of Mising women weavers is transforming tradition into breathtaking textiles. Lékopé, an initiative by Ayang Trust, empowers these women by providing them with access to modern looms, design interventions, and direct market linkages. As Majuli faces annual natural disasters, these artisans are not just weaving textiles but also resilience, stitching together a better future for their community. 

The Indian Motif: Working with women weavers across India, The Indian Motif blends traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics. Their commitment to ethical fashion ensures that artisans receive fair wages while preserving the authenticity of regional weaves. Through their initiatives, women artisans find not just financial independence but also global appreciation for their craft.  

 HKV Benaras: Banaras has been synonymous with handwoven silk for centuries, and HKV Benaras is dedicated to keeping this legacy alive. By partnering with women weavers, the organization fosters a space where artisans can innovate while staying rooted in tradition. Their efforts have led to increased visibility and demand for Banarasi textiles, securing a dignified livelihood for many women artisans.