An Enduring Legacy
The Madur Kathi craft gained prominence when hand-weaving techniques became popular in the Bengal region. The grass Cyperus Corymbose, a type of reed, is used to weave these mats. According to some historical estimates, the Madur Kathi craft was introduced to the region by the Mughal Empire in the 16th century. The craft has evolved as artisans have passed down their techniques to the subsequent generations of craftsmen.
The technique behind crafting these mats is quite intricate and complex. Artisans grow and harvest the grass for the limited purpose of weaving the Madur Kathi mat. After harvesting the grass, it is cleaned and processed by hand until it becomes malleable and soft. Once ready, artisans initiate the weaving process. Then, intricate geometric designs are formed using the warp-and-weft pattern to weave the grass. A marquee feature of this craft is using a vibrant set of colours to add character to the mats. Artisans use natural sources of colour, such as fruits and vegetables, to dye the grass in the desired colours. Using all-natural raw materials makes this craft highly sustainable and supports the region's local economy.
