Khadi gains popularity, it's time to don the fabric

It's a fabric that's easy to fall in love with thanks to its earthy yet elegant feel. It has similar qualities to linen, but sans the crumple factor.

It's rare when a fabric is the talk of the town. It's even rarer when the fabric is khadi, made from the humble cotton.

We have been witnessing the rise and rise of khadi. In January, the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) hosted a fashion show in Ahmadabad called "Huts to High Street" that showcased the wonders of khadi.

Ahmadabad was, of course, the right place for the show considering that Mahatma Gandhi's Sabarmati Ashram is in the city's suburbs and khadi was his favourite fabric.

And then on the weekend, the second edition of "Huts to High Street" was held at IIM Ahmedabad. With designers like Rohit Bal, Rajesh Pratap Singh and Pero by Aneeth Arora showcasing their collections.

Of course, the real stars of the show were showstoppers Sonam Kapoor and Salman Khan. Busy promoting their film "Prem Ratan Dhan Payo" this duo has been making many stylish appearances together.

Khadi, of course, first gained prominence in Gandhi's days, when wearing it became a political statement. It was a symbol of the Swadeshi movement to encourage Indians to boycott industrially spun fabrics from England. Today's khadi is very different from what was spun during the struggle for freedom.

It's a fabric that's easy to fall in love with thanks to its earthy yet elegant feel. It has similar qualities to linen, but sans the crumple factor. Each piece of khadi is truly unique as is handspun cloth made from hemp. You can find cotton, silk and wool khadi fabrics, yet for years it was totally ignored by the fashion fraternity.

To put it bluntly, the reason for khadi being ignored was that it had a 'jholawala' image. This has now changed sharply, and Indian fashion seems to be having a relook at the fabric of freedom. And perhaps fashion is taking their cue from Narendra Modi's current "Make in India" mantra. Whether this is true or not, it does seem it is time for us all to wearing khadi.

sujata@khaleejtimes.com

Designer Rohit Bal showcases his collection.

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