Indian Textiles: Glorious History of Kumbi Sarees. (Goa)

The Kunbi sarees of Goa are said to have a history going back several centuries they were mainly worn by the women of Kunbi and Gauda tribes who wore it with a knot over one shoulder, without a choli just like the Assamese Santali saree, it stood just below the knees. 

These beautiful sarees today  are for dual purpose of work or social party..But the Goan tribal ladies wore it with ease whether they were working in the rice fields or performing the famed Kunbi dance.

This heritage weave would have been lost to posterity after the Portuguese came to Goa. Had it not been for the revival efforts of patrons of Indian Textiles, brought back Kunbi sarees from inactive looms These sarees were worn primarily by the christian gauda community.

The Kunbi community are renowned for their expertise in weaving these beautiful. sarees, and the history of Kunbi sarees can be traced back to ancient times when the Kunbi community engaged in agriculture and weaving. 

The roots of the word Kunbi are “kin” and “bee”. Signifying the ability to germinate from one seed to multiple seeds is the meaning that emerges when these two words are combined.

The Kunbi people use their own cotton crop by weave the cotton yarn into fabrics, the tradition of weaving and wearing Kunbi sarees has been passed down through generations, making it an integral part of the community's cultural heritage.

Kunbi sarees are known for their simplicity, elegance, and traditional appeal. They are typically woven using pure cotton yarns, and the fabric is lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for the hot and humid climate. The sarees are characterized by their plain or striped patterns in vibrant colors, with minimal or no embellishments.

The importance of Kunbi sarees lies in their cultural and historical significance. These sarees represent the craftsmanship and traditional weaving techniques of the Kunbi community. 

They showcase the rich cultural heritage and artistic skills of the weavers. The handloom industry plays a vital role in the economic sustenance of the Kunbi community, providing employment opportunities and preserving traditional weaving techniques.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in handloom textiles and a growing demand for sustainable and ethically made products. 

Kunbi sarees have gained recognition not only in Goa, but also across India and internationally. They have become a symbol of traditional Indian textiles and craftsmanship.

Various organizations and government initiatives have been undertaken to support and promote the Kunbi handloom industry. These efforts aim to preserve the traditional weaving techniques, provide fair wages to weavers, and ensure the sustainability of the craft.

Kunbi sarees hold a significant place in the textile heritage of Goa. They are a testament to the cultural identity and artistic skills of the Kunbi community, while also contributing to the preservation and promotion of handloom textiles in India.

"A saree is not just a garment; it's an expression of grace, elegance, and tradition." 
 
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