The New Normal: Textile Crafts in Kutch Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This paper explores how the artisan communities of Kutch district in India navigate through the impact of the 2001 earthquake and the COVID-19 pandemic, to preserve their skills as well as initiate self innovative designs. The intention is to look into the negative impact on their lives that also offers a ray of hope for innovations to have taken place. The pressure of the pandemic has pushed artisans to preserve craft culture in various ways. An example of the master artisans of Dhamadka, custodians of natural dyeing and traditional Ajrakh hand block printing for 10 generations is shared. The pandemic situation has thus inspired them to create narrative masterpieces. A reference to a weaving community in Bhujodi village, who experienced a steep monetary downfall due to the curb on trade, that accounted for a major portion of their income, has also been made. This paper brings forth an experience of the balance of life where a downfall followed by a rise becomes the way of life, the “New Normal” today. The pandemic has certainly affected the artisan communities a great deal, but each has resonated a different impact toward their livelihood.