Khadi, or Khaddar, is a traditional fabric from India that was popularized by Mahatma Ghandiji before the independence. Before, it was only worn by rural people and political leaders, and its manufacture was quite limited. Khadi was encouraged by Ghandiji as an alternative and a statement against wearing British clothes. The Indian flag is also made of Khadi, adding to its significance as a national symbol.
Today, the population demands more khadi than the manufacturers can supply due to its increasing popularity as a worthy addition to one’s wardrobe. Early forms of khadi had coarse textures, but recently, khadi has been made with cotton, silk, and wool, making it more comfortable, and hence, more popular.
One of the most surprising aspects of Khadi fabric is its ability to keep the wearer cool during the summer and at the same time keeping him or her warm during the winter. This fabric is also enhanced by washing, not worn out by it, but starch has to be added to avoid wrinkling easily. It can last for four to five years. Khadi is also normally embellished with designs and handwork. Men and women alike are involved in weaving this fabric in a pattern that allows air ventilation. Earlier, Khadi was dyed with earth tones, but today, different colors and prints are available on the market. Salwar suits, saris, shirts, handkerchiefs, and trousers can also use khadi cotton as its base material.
Khadi silk, while providing an elegant and comfortable look, has been known to shrink by 3% of its original size after washing. Khadi silk is made in equal proportions of khadi fabric and silk, and can be used for shirts, vest, dupattas, salwar kameez, and kurta pajamas.
The fabric is considered to be one of India’s finest, and it serves well as a symbol of national identity and functional and practical everyday wear.
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