The news highlights the successful revival of Udupi saree weaving, thanks to the efforts of the Kadike Trust, an NGO that started the Udupi Saree Revival in 2018. The trust used various approaches like social media campaigns, training with Nabard support, and other measures to bring back the traditional weaving technique from extinction in two districts.
To make Udupi sarees more eco-friendly and attractive, the Kadike Trust initiated natural dyeing experiments in 2019. They have been using natural dyes like areca nut, indigo, madder, wild almond, marigold, pomegranate, golden shower, coconut husk, and eucalyptus to dye the sarees in various shades.
During the launch event at Talipady Weavers Society in Kinnigoli, the sarees dyed with areca nut and other natural dyes were released by Shree Padre, executive editor of Adike Patrike, along with other guests. The event also saw the presence of various dignitaries, including Guruprakash Shetty from Selco India, M R Pai, Mamatha Rai, and Dyer Vasudeva Shettigar, among others.
The Kadike Trust received significant support from Selco India, which provided grant funding for equipment like solar water heaters, lighting, winding devices, agitators, grinders, and dryers to aid the natural dyeing process.
The sarees will be available for purchase through the website www.udupisaree.org on prior booking.
It is heartening to see that traditional weaving practices are being revived, and natural dyeing methods are being embraced for a more sustainable approach to creating these beautiful sarees.
