Preserving heritage: Udupi saree revival takes center stage

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, November 25, 2024: The Mangaluru Chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) hosted an enlightening talk on the “Revival of Traditional Weave: Udupi Saree” on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at the Kodial Guthu Centre for Art and Culture. This session was the sixth program in the ongoing World Heritage Week celebrations.

The keynote speaker, Mamatha Rai, founder of Kadike Trust, shared her inspiring journey of reviving the Udupi Saree. Kadike Trust works closely with weavers in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts to preserve and rejuvenate this heritage craft.

In her talk, Mamatha Rai recounted her transition from being a science professor to becoming a passionate advocate for the Udupi Saree. “When I started, there were only 40-45 weavers remaining, most of whom had abandoned the craft decades ago. The younger generation saw no future in weaving,” she recalled.

She elaborated on the trust’s holistic approach to revival, which includes extensive research, confidence-building within weaving communities, training programs, branding and awareness campaigns. These efforts have led to a remarkable transformation: the weaving tradition now enjoys a growing market, recognition through a Geographical Indication (GI) tag and an assured steady income for the weavers. Younger generations are increasingly embracing the craft. “Today, Udupi Sarees are steadily regaining their rightful place in our cultural fabric,” she said.

Subhas Chandra Basu, Convener of INTACH Mangaluru Chapter, welcomed the gathering. Sharvani Bhat introduced the speaker. Mamatha Rai was felicitated for her contributions to heritage preservation.

The World Heritage Week celebrations will conclude with a photo exhibition on "Kattes in Mangaluru." The exhibition will be open to the public at the Kodial Guthu Centre daily from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. from November 25 to 30, 2024.