Pashmina, known as “soft gold,” has represented luxury and prestige since the Mughal era.
Why in the news?
Pashmina, often referred to as “soft gold,” has been a symbol of luxury and prestige since the Mughal era. This fabric holds significant cultural importance in Kashmir, where it is commonly used in ceremonial shawls and treasured heirlooms. Pashmina is associated with exceptional craftsmanship, representing the rich heritage of the region.
Key Takeaways:
1. Pashmina, popularly known as cashmere wool, is well-known not just in India but also globally for its exquisite softness, warmth, and long life. It derives its name from pashmn – the under fleece of the mountain goat called Chyangra (Capra Hircus), which lives in the high altitude of 12,000 feet in the Himalayan regions.
2. It is the preferred choice for many during the winter season as the thermal conductivity of this wool is very high, making it one of the best insulators.
3. The art of crafting pashmina has been part of Himalayan culture for centuries. Its hand-spun and handwoven nature imbues it with a human and historical essence. Many Himalayan families have been involved in this craft for generations, preserving not only a livelihood but also a rich cultural identity.
4. Pashmina shawls undergo a lengthy process involving hand-combing, spinning, weaving, and dyeing, which can take weeks or even months. The weaving is performed on traditional handlooms and is a meticulous process that requires immense skill. The production of a single Pashmina piece can take anywhere from months to years, depending on its complexity.
5. Kashmir’s Pashmina has received GI tag due to the unique traditional process employed by local artisans in the Kashmir Valley.