The Hyundai Great India Drive celebrates sustainable fashion, showcasing traditional craftsmanship and ecological textiles across Gujarat’s rich landscapes.
The eighth edition of the Hyundai Great India Drive recently commenced, marking a celebratory journey through the diverse landscapes of India, with this year’s focus set on the artistry of sustainable fashion. This year’s adventure began at the picturesque Rann of Kutch in Gujarat, where participants set out in a Hyundai ALCAZAR to explore and appreciate the traditional craftsmanship surrounding cotton and textiles.
Traditionally viewed as an everyday textile, cotton has deeper roots in Gujarat—specifically a variant known as Kala Cotton. This type is recognized for its resilience and organic farming practices, thriving without the need for irrigation, pesticides, or fertilizers. Those involved in this sustainable practice aspire to revive and maintain ancient methods of textile production, which have been overshadowed by fast fashion.
During the journey, travelers made a key stop at the Khamir Craft Resource Centre in Bhuj, where they engaged with Mr. Paresh Mangalia, who offered insights into the unique characteristics of the region’s cotton. The focus on this sustainable textile serves to educate others on the importance of organic practices in cotton farming.
Another crucial aspect of the cotton craft is indigo dyeing, which has roots that date back thousands of years. At the Vikram Vankar Valji center in Bhujodi, the intricate process of natural indigo dyeing relies on traditional methods and expertise. Dinesh Vikram Vankar, who has dedicated fifteen years to mastering this craft, explained, “These vats are like little children, they have their own moods. Some days they colour wonderfully, other days not so much. You have to really care for them, make sure they’re getting everything they need, and cure them when they happen to fall ill.” This meticulous process, requiring multiple steps and specific conditions, highlights the dedication involved in creating each dyed piece.
Continuing their exploration, participants traveled to Ajrakhpur, where the Khatri family has been perfecting the Ajrakh printing technique since the 15th century. This resist printing method demands a complex process that takes up to 16 days from start to finish. Sufiyan Khatri, a tenth-generation artisan, shared his innovative approach post-COVID, stating, “After COVID, I started working on some fresh designs. I have a passion for trying new things.” His modern adaptations aim to combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, ensuring these artisanal techniques resonate with younger audiences.
The group then ventured into Gondal, where the art of Khadi weaving thrives without the interference of machinery. At Udyog Bharti, a hub for promoting Khadi, Kavin Patel emphasized the movement’s broader significance, stating, “Khadi is a fabric that is hand spun and hand woven. But more than that, Khadi has always been a symbol of self-reliance.” The institution seeks to inspire the next generation by modernizing Khadi while preserving its cultural essence.
The final destination of the journey was Himatnagar, where the raw materials gathered—raw cotton, naturally dyed fabrics, and Khadi—are transformed into sophisticated garments. This part of the journey illuminated a fashion philosophy that prioritizes sustainability and conscious design. Participants witnessed first-hand how the fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern practices is shaping the future of the fashion industry.
Throughout the Hyundai Great India Drive, the exploration of Gujarat’s ecological textiles highlighted the stories and labor interwoven within each piece, illustrating that sustainability in fashion extends far beyond mere aesthetics. The culmination of these experiences redefined the narrative of what responsible fashion can achieve in both preserving culture and fostering innovation.
Source: Noah Wire Services
