India's Enduring Legacy with Khadi: A Fabric of Freedom and Sustainability

Khadi, the humble handspun and handwoven fabric, is deeply rooted in India’s history, tradition, and cultural identity. The origins of khadi trace back over 5,000 years, with references to homespun cloth in the Vedas, India’s ancient scriptures. Its name, derived from the word "khaddar," meaning “handwoven cloth,” points to its authenticity and traditional technique. However, khadi gained significance during the Indian freedom struggle when Mahatma Gandhi transformed it into a symbol of self-reliance and national pride. He encouraged Indians to adopt khadi and boycott foreign textiles, sparking a movement that helped unify the country against colonial rule.

### What is Khadi?

Khadi is more than just a fabric; it is a labor-intensive process where cotton, wool, or silk fibers are spun into yarn on a charkha (spinning wheel) and then handwoven on a loom. This intricate method gives the fabric a unique texture and breathability, making it ideal for India's varying climate. People embraced khadi for its comfort, simplicity, and symbolism of economic self-sufficiency. Gandhi saw khadi as a way to revive the village economy and empower rural artisans, describing it as the “livery of freedom” for India.

### Khadi's Role in India's Economy

In contemporary times, khadi continues to play a vital role in India's economy. According to the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), the khadi sector generated over ₹2,000 crore (approximately $250 million) in revenue in 2021-22. The "Khadi for Nation, Khadi for Fashion" initiative has revitalized the sector, making khadi popular among younger generations and fashion designers. The industry employs over 4 lakh (400,000) artisans, and around 80% of these are women, highlighting khadi’s role in empowering women in rural India. Women artisans contribute significantly to the production process, from spinning yarn to weaving and dyeing fabric.

### Khadi as a Sustainable Fabric

Khadi is one of the most sustainable fabrics, requiring minimal electricity and water. It supports traditional, eco-friendly practices, using natural dyes and avoiding mass production. As more consumers embrace sustainable fashion, khadi’s appeal has grown. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s promotion of khadi as a “fabric of national pride” has also driven its resurgence, with KVIC reporting a 133% increase in khadi sales in the last decade.

### Impact on Rural Livelihoods

Khadi provides livelihoods for many rural households, serving as a source of income for families who depend on agriculture. With over 2,600 khadi production units across India, it supports numerous households, offering artisans fair wages and a chance to sustain their craft. According to KVIC, nearly 11 crore (110 million) person-days of employment were generated through the khadi sector in recent years, making it an economic lifeline for rural India.

### Looking Ahead: The Future of Khadi

Khadi’s connection to India is unparalleled, embodying heritage, craftsmanship, and resilience. As designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee said, “Khadi is the language of identity.” In an era where sustainability is paramount, khadi’s future looks promising as it continues to symbolize India’s journey from colonial resistance to modern, sustainable living. Khadi stands as a testament to India’s enduring spirit, providing not just a fabric but a legacy that sustains communities, empowers women, and celebrates India’s past and future.