By Project FUEL
In collaboration with Uttarakhand Handloom and Handicraft Development Council
Garhwali Topi is a traditional cap of the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. It is light weight and an integral part of the Pahadi men's ensemble in the hills of Kumaon and Garhwal. Worn at first as a necessity to protect from the harsh weather, or carrying load on the head, the Garhwali Topi has now become an iconic part of the traditional Garhwali attire.
Garhwali Topi: Utility (2018/2018) by Project FUELProject FUEL
The Garhwali Topi was earlier called Sikoli in the regional language. Over the years, it has changed from a utility piece to a fashion statement. With time, the designs of the Topi were also discovered.
How a Garhwali Topi is made (2018/2018) by Project FUELProject FUEL
To make a topi, the cloth is first measured and cut according to the size. A white thread is then used to form designs on the topi. The diagonal lines that are being stitched here represent the mountains.
The meaning behind the designs on a Garhwali Topi (2018/2018) by Project FUELProject FUEL
The designs in Garhwali Topi holds symbolism inspired by the lives in the mountains and mythological tales.
The diagonal lines represent the mountains, whereas the two parallel lines running on the top and bottom are a nod to the Ganga and Yamuna rivers.
Theses two rivers originate in Uttarakhand and from there, they flow to other states, aiding the civilizations on its banks.
Kailash Bhatt resides in Gopeshwar, Chamoli, Uttarakhand. Extremely passionate about Garhwali culture, he decided to quit his government job and followed his passion. After being approached by local musicians, he decided to do research on Garhwali textiles and dedicate himself towards its revival and preservation. His Garhwali Topi have won him many accolades and appreciation amongst his customers.
Kailash Bhatt's Life Lesson (2018/2018) by Project FUELProject FUEL
He believes that the legacy of the traditional should be carried forward, which will be possible if the youngsters take up the craft. “You should always listen to your heart and choose your profession accordingly, because that’s the best thing you can do for yourself”.
In this video, artisan Kailash Bhatt talks about Garhwali Topi and his story of craft preservation, the persistent hard work behind it and why it is necessary to uphold our traditional craft and carry them forward
'Homespun in Uttarakhand' is an episodic series that features life lessons of seven master artisans of Uttarakhand, their personal stories and their passion celebrating the unrecognised & dying craft practices, which need preservation.
Presented by Project FUEL, in collaboration with Uttarakhand Handloom and Handicraft Development Council (UHHDC)
Director: Ajitesh Sharma
Director of Photography: Udit Khurana
Music: Sameer Rahat
Editor: Tushar Madhav
Producer: Apoorva Bakshi
Creative Producer: Deepak Ramola
Sound Design and Mix: Teja Asgk
Colorist: Shara Sethna
Project Manager: Neha Gupta
Research: FUEL Foundation Society
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.