The Community
Weaving culture, heritage, and artisanship
The weaving tradition of the Devangan community in Dhamtari district traces its roots back through generations, weaving culture, heritage, and artisanship. Dating back centuries, the Devangan community has been instrumental in preserving and enriching the weaving legacy of the region.
Legend has it that the Devangan community migrated to Dhamtari district from neighboring areas, bringing with them their intricate weaving techniques and rich cultural heritage. Over time, they integrated these traditions with the local customs, giving rise to a unique fusion of styles that characterizes Devangan weaving today.
Weaving has long been an integral part of the Devangan way of life, with skills passed down from elders to the younger generations through oral tradition and hands-on apprenticeship. Women predominantly engage in the weaving process, skillfully working on handlooms to create intricate patterns and designs that reflect the community's identity and ethos.
The Devangan weavers are known for their mastery of traditional techniques such as pit loom weaving and supplementary weft weaving, which allow them to create exquisite textiles with stunning detail and precision. These textiles often feature vibrant colours, intricate motifs inspired by nature, and symbolic designs that hold deep cultural significance within the community.
In a significant turning point for the weaving landscape of Dhamtari district, the addition of the Sahu and Netam communities to the ranks of weavers brought about a transformative shift. As they joined the cooperative society, they brought with them their own unique weaving traditions, techniques, and artistic sensibilities, enriching the collective tapestry of the region's textile heritage.