Textile

The human civilization starts with the use of fire and garments and both have evolved through multiple innovative methods and technological experiments. The textiles were worn for protection from climatic changes, enhancement of beauty or aesthetic appeal and also for better impression on the onlooker. These factors granted enormous opportunities to costumes to flourish and to change patterns and fashion with the passage of time. The showcases in the Jnana-Pravaha Museum display some regional variations, which were worn by people of status as per their requirements and choice. These include Baluchar sari [Bengal], Mashroo and Asavari [Gujarat], Loom-woven woollen shawls [Kashmir], Paithani Shash from Paithan [Maharashtra], Delicate cotton 'Jamdani' [Bengal & Avadh (Tanda)], Rajasthani prints and embroidery work including 'gota' and 'karchobi' and Embroidered 'Nakshi Kantha' [Bengal]. Beside these, the early 16th century woven-silk - 'Samit' - from Eastern India (the earliest specimen in the Indian collection) and 17th century Persian brocades are of great charm.

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