In recognition of the age-old rich textile tradition of the state’s indigenous tribal communities, especially the weavers and spinners of Umden-Diwon, the Textiles Department will formally declare the Raid Nongtluh village as the first eri silk village in the world on February 12.
This recognition will be along the lines of the Hai An silk village in Vietnam and Sualkuchi in Assam.
Umden-Diwon, with its vibrant culture, rich textile heritage, scenic surroundings and women empowerment, presents a varied bouquet of attractions that are a multi-sensory overload.
The eri (known as ryndia locally) textiles of these villages that have earned a name for themselves for their singular ahimsa peace silk, organic dyes, natural colours, vibrancy, eye for detail, woven and spun by its weavers and spinners in their villages and adjoining areas, right from pre-cocoon to post-cocoon and owing to its favourable climatic conditions, topography, flora and fauna, rich association with its timeless legacy and tradition, Umden-Diwonhas emerged as the epicentre of eri culture in the state, with sericulture and handloom activities involving more than 70 percent of full-time active weavers. It continues to draw researchers and visitors for its exceptional products which are ethically produced and organically sourced.
