Pashmina Shawl

Current Context : Prime Minister recently gifted a Delhi-Delaware silver train model to US President Joe Biden and a pashmina shawl to First Lady Jill Biden during his three-day US visit for the Quad Summit.

ABOUT PASHMINA SHAWL

• Origin: Originate from Kashmirand are crafted from fine Ladakhi Cashmere wool.
• Material: The word “Pashmina” comes from the Persian “Pashm,” meaning “soft gold” or “soft wool.” The wool is sourced from the undercoat of the Changthangi (Pashmina) goat, native to the Himalayanregions of Ladakh, Nepal, and Tibet.
• Characteristics: These goats develop a soft undercoat during harsh winters, which is collected to make the shawls.
• Geographical Indication (GI): Kashmir’s Pashmina has earned a GI tagfor its unique traditional crafting methods

Traditional Craftsmanship:

• Wool is hand-spun using traditional wheels and woven on handloomsor wooden looms.
• Designs include floral motifsand paisley patterns, reflecting Kashmiri cultural heritage.
• Natural dyesfrom local plants and minerals are used for coloring.

Crafting Process: The intricate weaving process can take weeks or months, depending on the complexity of the design.