Question

Do you understand all the terms used above to list and describe Indian textiles? If not, form groups of four or five and try to find out more, then compare your findings with the help of your teacher.

Answer 1

1. Muslin: A very fine, soft, and lightweight cotton fabric, famous for its excellent quality.
2. Calico: A type of cotton cloth named after Calicut (Kozhikode), an important centre of textile trade.
3. Chintz: A colourful cotton fabric with beautiful printed or painted floral designs.
4. Jamdani: A fine, decorative handwoven fabric with intricate patterns, traditionally made from cotton.
5. Silk: A smooth and valuable fabric that was widely produced and traded in India.
6. Cotton: One of India’s most important textile materials, used to make a wide variety of cloth.
7. Wool: A warm textile made from animal fibres and used to produce shawls, blankets, and other clothing.
8. Importance: These textiles show the skill, creativity, and richness of India’s traditional textile industry and were highly valued in international markets.