By IANS,
Dhaka : Top fashion designers of Bangladesh have organised an exclusive exhibition of ‘khaddar’ and ‘taat’, the hand-spun fabrics produced by the Gandhi Ashram Trust of Noakhali.
‘Charkha’, the spinning wheel popularised by Mahatma Gandhi as a symbol of self-reliance, was displayed at the exhibition hosted by Deshi Dosh, a joint platform of ten leading fashion houses.
The ‘charkha’ is now dedicated to promoting Bangladeshi weavers and fabrics at the exhibition called “Gandhir Swadeshikotaye Deshi Dosh”, the New Age newspaper said.
The colours and dyes used are all natural and products of research at Gandhi Ashram Trust that has created about 300 shades.
The exhibition also has food products, including mango pickle.
The Gandhi Ashram Trust of Noakhali was established during the 1940s with a view to supporting and upholding the spirit of self-reliance and pride in the work of local artisans.
Its history draws a strong influence from Mahatma Gandhi’s only visit to Noakhali in August 1947, when India was partitioned by the British.
Many eminent personalities were present at the exhibition’s opening Jan 21.
A speaker at the programme spoke of the effort of the common people and the craftsmen of Bengal, “who have always kept up the spirit of self-reliance”. The inauguration programme also included songs of the freedom movement.
Link:
http://gandhiashrambd.org/