Kullu shawl to be patented

Kullu, Aug 17 : The world famous Kullu shawl of Himachal Pradesh, which has been in fashion for its unusual pattern and perfect weaving, is facing tough times these days.

Many companies are producing these shawls with help of machines rather than on looms.

This has affected the business of handmade shawls, which occupies a place of pride among the native handloom products.

Sensing the threat, the Kullu Shawls Weavers' Association registered a geographical indicator under the name of 'Kullu Shawls' in 2006. However, the geographical indication (GI) has not been implemented so far.

"Science and Technology Department Himachal Pradesh along with Department of Industry and State Ministry, Kullu Shawls Weavers' Association have registered a geographical indicator under the name of Kullu shawls. Now only the people here would use the name," said Chamana Lal Sharma, General Manager Industry H.P.Government.

There are more than ten thousand weavers in Kullu dependent on weaving Industry, but the Kullu shawls industry is facing tough times and could be on the path to oblivion.

This step of the government would ensure that genuine handmade Kullu shawls would be only available to the customers.

"This would benefit the customers as they would get genuine Kullu shawl. In past few years, machine made shawls were coming from Ludhiana on the name of handloom," said Satya Prakash Thakur, Chairman, Bhuttico Co-operative Society, Kullu.

The distinctively designed and perfectly weaved Kullu shawls were traditionally available in two types, Pattu for females and Chadru for males. The valley also promotes the regional Kinnauri shawls.

The patent would ensure that the people as souvenirs carry the rich and warm experience of the traditional shawl. By Prem Kumar

ANI