Saffron-Picking, Khadi-Weaving: Exploring Eight Eco-Traditions of India
Author: Sheela Preuitt and Praba Ram
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This book brings eight communities across India, from saffron-growers of Kashmir to khadi weavers of Ponduru, in an effort to celebrate their skills, knowledge, and commitment to using environment-friendly practices to make utilitarian objects from natural materials. Through this journey the book attempts to raise awareness to sustain and strengthen such skills and livelihood.
The journey begins from a household of saffron-growers in Pampore region of Kashmir. Read about the Meghwals of Mewar, Rajasthan who migrated to Sindh in Pakistan in the 17th century, and then on to Kutch in 1971 after the Indo -Pak war. Move on to the Monpas, the only nomadic tribe in Northeast of India are known for their wood carving, carpet making and weaving.
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Read about the Agariyas, the migrant salt makers work untiringly for two quarters of a year under extremely trying circumstances.
Get a glimpse of the worlds of Kumars and Hiras (traditional potters) of Assam, Changpa (pashmina wool traders) of Ladakh, indigo growers of Bagru-Rajasthan and khadi-weavers of Ponduru, Andhra Pradesh.