International Seminar on Himalayan Textiles Begins at Graphic Era

International Seminar on Himalayan Textiles Begins at Graphic Era
Dehradun, October 23. Experts at Graphic Era said that the traditional textile arts of the Himalayan region are a treasured part of its cultural identity and can be preserved for the future through modern technology and sustainable practices.
A two-day international seminar on Himalayan Textiles: Tradition, Technology and a Sustainable Future began today at Graphic Era Hill University. Chief Guest Dr. Anamika Pathak, Chairperson of the Textiles and Clothing Research Centre (TCRC), said that the Himalayan region, stretching from Assam to Leh-Ladakh, is a unique treasure trove of textile traditions. Textiles made from natural resources such as pashmina, cotton and stinging nettle are an integral part of the region’s identity, and young innovators are taking these traditional crafts to new markets through innovation. The influence of Buddhist motifs in the textiles of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Ladakh reflects the cultural exchange that took place along ancient trade routes. Following initiatives focused on Punjab, Banaras and hill embroidery, this initiative is another effort to preserve this rich heritage.
Vice Chancellor Dr. Tabassum Naqvi said that the textile traditions of the Himalayan region represent its rich culture, heritage and craftsmanship. She emphasised that preserving these traditions by integrating them with modern technology, innovative designs and sustainable development is our responsibility.
The Himalayan Heritage Fashion Walk brought the legacy of the Himalayas to the ramp in a new avatar. Traditional costumes of Rolne Utsav were showcased in contemporary styles, while the tribal motifs of Nagaland and textiles made from stinging nettle offered an example of sustainable fashion. Uttarakhand-inspired hip-hop streetwear particularly appealed to young audiences. Kullu shawls and Kashmiri pherans, reimagined through futuristic designs, demonstrated how tradition can be connected with the present.
The seminar was jointly organised by the University’s Department of Fashion Designing University, the Textiles and Clothing Research Centre, and the Indian Institute of Crafts and Design (IICD), Jaipur. Registrar Dr. Jyoti Chhabra, Dean of Academics Dr. Pramod Nair, Mr. Rajiv Kumar Solanki, Dr. Bani Jha, faculty members and students attended the seminar.