Lambani Art

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Context

• At the 3rd G20 Culture Working Group, In Hampi, Karnataka, Guinness World Record was set for the largest display of Lambani items.
• A total of 1755 items were on display.

Other Details

• It was an effort/initiative to popularize Lambani art, craft and culture.
• This initiative is also expected to encourage the participation of Nari Shakti in such cultural activities.

Lambani Embroidery

• Also known as Banjara embroidery, it is an intricate embroidery art done on a piece of cloth.
• This art is mainly practiced by the community of Lambanis.
• This art comprises various processes such as –
  • Firstly Basic tools and materials are collected – for eg – Fabric, needles, thread, accessories etc.
  • Then there is selection of patterns, types and shapes of stitches, color combinations
  • Accessories like beads, mirror are added in the later stage.
  • Finally it is ironed to give the cloth piece a desired look.
• The final piece of cloth can be used in clothing, curtain, pillow cover, bedcovers, bags, etc.
• Sandur Lambani Embroidery is recognized with a Geographical Indication tag in 2010.

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Features

• Done on a loosely woven piece of cloth.
• It includes –
  • Around 14 types of stitches with various geometric shapes like - squares, circles, triangles, diagonal lines etc.
  • Parallel lines of multi color threads.
  • Patchwork.
  • Mirror work, Beads, Metal buttons, Ghungroo etc.
  • Quilting.
  • Applique, an ornamental needlework.
  • Overlaying
• Most commonly used colors are red, yellow and blue

Who are Lambanis

• These are nomadic tribes that are spread across India.
• Regarding the origins of the Lambani community, there are many theories, some are -
  • They are considered to be the descendants of the Romanis of Europe.
  • Came from the Ghor province of Afghanistan and then settled in Rajasthan, Gujarat and then migrated down south.
• These tribal communities of Banjara or Lambani mainly reside in -
  • Sanduru, Bellary and Bijapur in Karnataka, and
  • Hyderabad in Andhra Pradesh.

Significance of Lambani Art

• Empower marginalised communities like Lambani
• Contribution to economy of the country.
• Preserve the rich cultural traditions in line with the constitutional provisions.
• It can also contribute to improving biodiversity of their region as
  • Indigenous fibres are required.
  • Native plant dyes are used. and
  • Locally sourced materials are preferred.
• It is sustainable practice which works on the principle of recycle and reuse. No fabric or material is wasted in the process.
• Potential to enhance India’s soft power.

Efforts for Conservation

• More exhibitions to make people interested in the art.
• The artisans should be financially supported.
• There should be a formal course to learn this art.
• More promotion and brand engagement would help to revive this indigenous art.
• More efforts by government are needed to rehabilitate and reform
• GI tag will help in creating a unique selling proposition.
• More awareness about indigenous textiles and fashion will help this art to gain momentum.

Must Read Article:

GI Tag

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/geographical-indication-gi-tag

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/gi-tag

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/geographical-indications-gi

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1938535