INTACH Mangaluru hosts workshop on charkha spinning for primary school students

INTACH Mangaluru hosts workshop on charkha spinning for primary school students

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, January 22, 2025: The Mangaluru Chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), in association with INTACH Heritage Education and Communication Services, New Delhi, and the Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School, Gandhinagar, organized a one-day workshop on charkha spinning titled ‘Charakadondige Ondu Dina’ (‘A Day with Charkha’). The programme, held on Monday, January 21, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the school premises, aimed to revive and promote the age-old practice of spinning as a sustainable textile production method.

The workshop was conducted by Sachidananda KJ and Soumya, a couple dedicated to advocating for charkha and weaving cultures. Subhas Chandra Basu, Convener of INTACH Mangaluru Chapter, and Manoj Kumar, President of the School Development Committee presided over the programme. A total of 35 students from classes 7 and 8 participated in the programme, coordinated by members of the INTACH Mangaluru Chapter.

Sachidananda began the workshop with an engaging introduction to charkha spinning, emphasizing its significance as both a traditional craft and a practice that fosters focus and self-reliance. “Spinning yarn is a delicate process that requires complete concentration. It not only allows us to create our own clothing but also enhances our ability to stay attentive and mindful,” he explained. He further highlighted charkha’s ecological and cultural relevance as a sustainable textile practice.

Students were divided into batches and practiced spinning on 10 portable charkhas brought by the resource persons. The facilitators guided the students through the intricate process. During the session, Sachidananda demonstrated the creation of a 500-meter yarn, explaining its transformation into textiles.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by the school headmistress, Sharmila D’Souza. School teacher Rajeshwari introduced the resource persons and provided an overview of the workshop. The event concluded with appreciation for the students’ active participation and a felicitation ceremony for the resource persons and guests.