Where Bengal Weaves: The Handloom Trails of Phulia & Shantipur

Step into the living world of Bengal's handloom tradition on a day-long journey from Kolkata to Phulia and Shantipur, two of Bengal's most celebrated weaving centres.

In Phulia, we explore the neighbourhoods where generations of weavers have made their homes and livelihoods. We will visit working looms, meet people connected with the craft and learn how a saree evolves from yarn to intricate finished fabric.

Along the way, we will discover the distinctive traditions of Phulia's Tangail and Jamdani weaving, and visit handloom cooperatives and established weaving outlets to understand the range and craftsmanship of the textiles produced here.

The journey also takes us into the literary heritage of Phulia, traditionally associated with Krittibas Ojha, the celebrated poet of the Bengali Ramayana.

We then continue to Shantipur, another historic centre of Bengal's textile tradition. Here, we explore its weaving communities and learn about the distinctive techniques, designs and traditions that have made Shantipuri handloom famous across Bengal.

Throughout the day, the emphasis is on meeting the people behind the craft, seeing the weaving process up close and understanding the history and evolution of Bengal's handloom traditions.

Come discover the stories behind the threads, the skill behind the patterns, and the communities that continue to keep Bengal's weaving heritage alive.