In the July, 2025, episode of his monthly radio program Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the traditional craftsmanship of Paithani Sarees from Maharashtra. He highlighted the efforts of Kavita Dhawale, an artisan from Paithan, who has been instrumental in preserving and promoting this handloom product.
Key details from the announcement include
- Artisan’s Recognition: The Prime Minister specifically commended Kavita Dhawale, who runs a Paithani saree production center in the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district of Maharashtra. Dhawale’s work has provided employment to over 350 women and has helped promote the craft.
- Promotion of Local Handlooms: The praise for Paithani sarees is part of a broader “Vocal for Local” initiative, which encourages citizens to buy products made in India. The Prime Minister has consistently used his radio program to celebrate and support Indian handlooms and artisans.
- Emphasis on Cultural Heritage: Paithani sarees, often called the “Mahavastra” of Maharashtra, are known for their pure silk, gold zari work, and intricate designs. The Prime Minister’s recognition underscored the importance of preserving India’s cultural heritage and supporting the artisans who keep these traditions alive.
- Empowerment of Women: By spotlighting Dhawale’s work, the Prime Minister emphasized how supporting traditional crafts can empower women and boost rural economies.
Explanation of Exam Oriented Key Terms
01Paithani Sarees |
Paithani sarees are handwoven silk sarees from Paithan (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar) in Maharashtra, known for their intricate Zari work and traditional motifs like peacocks, flowers, and lotuses, inspired by Ajanta-Ellora art and mythology. Awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2010, this ancient craft dates back to the Satavahana era and is a significant symbol of Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage, supported by various dynasties over centuries. Key Features
Historical Context & Legacy
Recognition
Key Motifs and Meanings
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PRACTICE QUESTIONS
With reference to the Paithani Sarees, a traditional handloom product recently mentioned in the news, consider the following statements:
I. The Paithani saree is a cotton-based handloom product known for its plain weave with intricate zari work
II. The art of Paithani weaving is an ancient tradition, dating back to the Satavahana dynasty (around 2nd century BCE to 2nd century CE)
III. A unique characteristic of a genuine handloom Paithani saree is that both sides of the fabric look almost identical, with no loose threads or floats visible on the reverse side
IV. Paithani Sarees and Fabrics have been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag
How many of the statements given above are NOT correct?
a) Only one
b) Only two
c) Only three
d) All four
Answer: a
Explanation: Statement I is incorrect: While Paithani sarees were once made with cotton, modern Paithanis are woven using fine mulberry silk, with zari (gold/silver thread) work on the body, border, and pallu. The weaving technique uses an interlocking weft method (tapestry weaving), not a plain weave for the designs. Statement II is correct: The origins of the Paithani silk saree trace back to the ancient city of Paithan, on the banks of the Godavari River, during the Satavahana era. Statement III is correct: The key distinguishing feature of a genuine handloom Paithani is the intricate tapestry weaving technique (interlocking weft) which ensures that the design looks the same on both sides of the fabric, with no extra threads or floats on the reverse. Statement IV is correct: Recognizing their unique value and authenticity, Paithani Sarees and Fabrics were granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2010.
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