Bhagalpuri Silk may get a boost from initiatives like Bihar Business Connect 2024.
Patna December 22, 2024: The success of the Bihar Business Connect 2024 is undoubtedly a major milestone for the state, particularly with the signing of MoUs worth Rs 1.80 lakh crore.
The focus on industries like textile is set to bolster Bihar’s economy and reinforce its historical association with silk, especially Bhagalpuri Silk—a globally recognized symbol of India’s rich heritage in traditional craftsmanship.
Many companies have shown interest in investing in the logistics sector and the textile industry of Bihar may get benefit from it.
Bhagalpuri Silk has challenges and opportunities:
While Bhagalpuri silk faces competition from modern fabrics, initiatives like Bihar Business Connect 2024 could reignite demand by promoting handloom industries.
Efforts to make the industry eco-friendly and reduce animal cruelty align with global sustainability trends enhancing its appeal.
“By supporting Bhagalpuri silk, we not only preserve a unique craft but also empower the artisans of Bhagalpur, ensuring that this heritage continues to shine in the global spotlight,” said Ranjit Jain, a wholesale trader of garments in Bhagalpur.
“The flourishing Bhagalpuri silk industry is not just a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Bihar but also a pivotal contributor to the state’s economy. This traditional craft, which blends artistry and labour-intensive processes, continues to captivate both domestic and international markets,” Jain said.
Bhagalpuri silk, a timeless treasure:
Bhagalpur, aptly known as the “Silk City of India” is renowned for its exceptional Bhagalpuri silk, also called Tassar silk. Derived from the cocoons of the silkworm species Antheraea papia, this silk embodies elegance, sustainability, and craftsmanship.
The process is deeply connected to nature, producing silk in an ethical, cruelty-free manner, earning it the title of “Peace Silk”.
Significance of Sarees in Indian Culture:
Sarees hold a special place in Indian tradition, often regarded as the unofficial national dress for women.
With their myriad varieties and styles, sarees are staples for festivals, weddings, and special occasions. Among the famous silk like Banarsi silk, Kanjeevaram, Bhagalpuri silk, Chanderi, Maheshwari, Pochampalli, Tankati, and Paithani sarees in India, Bhagalpuri silk sarees are cherished for their exquisite texture, vibrant hues, and intricate cutwork designs,” said a handloom employee Savita Devi.
Unique features of Silk Sarees:
With handmade precision, it showcase the dedication of local artisans who weave tradition into every trend.
“It is available in numerous fabrics, colours and prints, and these sarees cater to diverse preferences. The versatility of Bhagalpuri silk is such that it can be draped in hundreds of ways, making them suitable for various occasions,” Savita said.
Bhagalpuri silk offers a spectrum of styles including Katia which is known for its robustness and vibrant colours, Eri, a softer, eco-friendly silk, mulberry, a premium silk known for its smooth texture and Gicha, known for its raw and rustic finish.
Economic and cultural significance of Bhagalpuri silk:
Bhagalpuri silk has an annual turnover exceeding Rs 100 crore with exports constituting 50% of revenue.
It has a global presence as it has been exported to countries like the USA, China, Korea, Thailand, Singapore, Japan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, making it a global ambassador of Indian heritage.
The production of Bhagalpuri Silk is a meticulous process with over 1 million skilled artisans and labours involved in the production, from extracting silk threads to wearing sarees.
The production of about 10 meters of silk is crafted in three days, allowing for the production of approximately 10 sarees per month per artisan. The production process is time-consuming, requiring immense skill and effort.
The costs of sarees range from Rs 3000 to 25000 depending on the design and fabric type.
Initiatives like Bihar Business Connect 2024 can provide the necessary boost to infrastructure in the textile industry.
Bhagalpuri silk is more than just a fabric; it is a heritage symbol that weaves together tradition, artistry support and innovation, this industry has the potential to shine even brighter on the global stage.
Also Read: Bihar Business Connect 2024 will boost the state economy as 423 companies have signed MoUs.
EOM.