A Synopsis of Dexterity and Skills of Chirala Cluster

The Chirala handloom cluster is famous for producing its invincible variety of fabrics which brought name and fame not only to the State but also to the nation.

The Chirala handloom Cluster is situated on Bay of Bengal where 'CHIRA' means Saree. Commonly known as 'Mini Mumbai' for its textile market, the Chirala cluster is located in 'Prakasam' district of Andhra Pradesh. Around 25000 weavers of the total weavers are working on 18000 handlooms. Chirala cluster weavers are classified as independent weavers, kooly weavers, shed weavers and master weavers. This area is famous for its production of traditional varieties of zari sarees and dhotis which is limited for local market. The "Real Madras handkerchiefs" is being manufactured with art silk and zari (metallic thread glittering like gold) on jacquard looms and exported to African countries. The improvement in the living conditions of the weaver is the result of introduction of this exportable variety and its popularity in the weavers of this area has also contributed in earning foreign exchange to the nation. The cloth is attracting the consumers in foreign countries because of its attractive and glittering design and texture. The "Real Madras Handkerchiefs" variety is also being manufactured in the countries like Bangladesh and China. The quality of the fabric will not give any anomalous odour to the cloth because of the climatic conditions maintained during the process of dyeing.

Products

The products of the Chirala cluster are sarees, dress material, Real Madras Handkerchiefs, lungies, shritings, handkerchiefs etc.

Sarees are broadly categorized in to three varieties:

• Ordinary cotton sarees ranges from Rs.180 to 350
• Seiko sarees ranges from Rs. 600 to 1500
• Kuppadam (Gadwal type) sarees varies from Rs.1400 to 2200

The Cluster scheme

Cluster scheme is a key for empowering handloom weavers and enhancing their capacity to sustain global competition with self-reliance. It has helped in facilitating collection of handloom weavers and service providers for procurement, production, and marketing to promote sustainable growth and diversification. It provides common infrastructure for development of handloom cluster in holistic manner for participative decision making. This has also been an encouraging convergence of assistance and support services for optimum utilization of resources for betterment of the livelihood and quality of life of handloom weavers.

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