Once A Weaving Hub, Why Tamil Nadu's Trichy Now Has Only One Woman Weaver

During the Chola dynasty, Uraiyur was renowned for its weaving industry. Today, a place called Weaver’s Colony in Uraiyur still exists, preserving the historical weaving heritage. The Rajakesari Highway, a prominent trade route that commenced at the Palakkad Pass in the Western Ghats on the western coast, extended through Urayur to the Bhoompukar port on the eastern coast.

In the historical period, boat traffic between Uraiyur and Poompuhar was common, navigating through the Cauvery River. This waterway served as a vital route for transporting inland cargo via boats. The textile fabric produced in Chola Nadu was highly sought after worldwide. But in the present day, the business of boat transport along this route has significantly declined, with only Indrani, a 75-year-old woman from Weaver’s Colony, as the sole practitioner of this trade.

Expressing her views on the matter, Indrani explained, “I’ve been involved in handloom weaving for almost 60 years with my family. I didn’t receive a formal education because it has been our family’s business for generations. My son and daughter-in-law have also carried on the tradition. Unfortunately, the soaring cost of cotton yarn has made it challenging for us to sustain this business profitably.”

People engaged in the handloom weaving sector often sought opportunities in places like Karur and Tiruppur. These individuals earned approximately Rs 600 per day, a sum that covered all their expenses, including the cost of textbooks. For many, their livelihoods hinged on the success of this industry.

Throughout history, women weavers have played a crucial role in the traditional handloom weaving industry. Unfortunately, their substantial contributions often go unnoticed since weaving primarily occurs within the homes of these artisans. Additionally, changes in the handloom sector, among other factors, have further marginalised women within this field.

In India, handlooms symbolize cultural wealth and the skill of weavers worldwide. Weavers historically had strong bargaining power, but the Industrial Revolution weakened it, resulting in economic challenges. Handlooms, once lucrative and culturally rich, are now barely sustainable. It has been facing challenges since the introduction of power looms, leading to struggles for both the heads of handloom societies and the weavers.