Influence of Socio-Cultural Factors on Craft Skills of Pattu Weavers of Barmer, Rajasthan

Pattu weaving is a traditional craft practiced by Meghwal community in desert region of western Rajasthan mainly in Barmer, Jaisalmer, Bikaner districts. It is an integral part of their social and cultural living that well balances utility with decoration. It was earlier made from locally available wool that helped in protecting from extreme cold in winters and at the same time symbolized the colourful clothing traditions of local communities using it. Pattu weavers, as a part of larger eco-system, have adapted to the changing socio-cultural environment and their craft skills have also evolved according to the social setting and the end-market. The same gets reflected in the design and quality of pattu they weave. This paper assesses the social and cultural factors that have significantly influenced the skills of pattu weavers of Barmer, thus resulting in design evolution of pattu.