Khaadi

Khaadi, also spelled Khadi or Khaddar, is a hand-spun and hand-woven natural fiber cloth primarily made from cotton. It may also include silk or wool, which are also hand-spun. The cloth is known for its coarse texture, breathability, and its historical association with the Indian independence movement.

The production of Khaadi involves spinning yarn on a charkha (spinning wheel) or by hand, and weaving it on a handloom. This labor-intensive process contributes to its unique texture and character.

Khaadi's significance extends beyond its textile properties. During India's struggle for independence, Mahatma Gandhi promoted Khaadi as a symbol of self-reliance, economic independence, and resistance to British rule. Encouraging Indians to spin their own yarn and weave their own cloth was seen as a way to boycott foreign goods and empower local communities.

Today, Khaadi remains a symbol of national pride and is promoted by the Indian government through the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC). It is used to make a variety of products, including clothing, home furnishings, and accessories. While modern machinery is sometimes used in the pre-processing stages (e.g., cleaning the cotton), the core process of spinning and weaving remains largely manual to maintain the essence of Khaadi. There are ongoing debates about the authenticity and sustainability of Khaadi as production methods evolve.