Artisan craft story Indigenous Kala Cotton

Our Kala Cotton Poncho – A Journey from Kutch to Your Wardrobe

Our Kala Cotton textile is more than just a layer—it’s a story woven by hand, connecting you to the artisans of Kutch and the heritage of sustainable craft. Here’s the journey behind each piece:

1. Rain-fed Resilience

Kala cotton is a drought-resistant crop that thrives on rainwater alone—no irrigation, no chemicals, just the natural rhythm of the monsoon. Its cultivation leaves an almost silent carbon footprint, making it one of the most sustainable cotton varieties in the world.

2. Woven in Village Homes

Once harvested, the cotton is spun and sent to village homes where traditional floor looms click and clatter to life. Here, weaving is a family affair—no machines, just hands, stories, and the steady beat of tradition. It’s a craft that binds generations, with each thread carrying the patience and skill of its maker.

3. Embroidery that Tells a Story

What makes these ponchos truly unique are the intricate Rabari, Suf, or Bawaria embroidery stitched by hand.

  • Rabari: Bold, geometric designs inspired by the nomadic communities of Kutch.

  • Suf: Delicate, fine-line patterns that are painstakingly counted and threaded without any pre-drawn patterns—just the memory and mastery of the artisan.

  • Bawaria: Symbolic motifs representing nature, community, and resilience, crafted with deep-rooted tradition.

These embroideries are not just decorative; they are pieces of living history, passed down through generations. Each stitch is a signature of its maker, carrying forward the legacy of Kutch’s artisans.

4. Softness with Every Wear

Kala cotton is known for its linen-like texture—breathable, durable, and softening with every wash. Its natural slub gives it character, while its organic roots mean it’s gentle on your skin and the planet.

5. Finished with a Touch of Tradition

After weaving and embroidery, the products are carefully cut and finished by Yogin bhai and his team in a community tailoring space. There are no zips or synthetic fastenings—just pure fabric and traditional techniques. The result is a poncho that drapes beautifully, fits effortlessly, and carries the essence of Kutch with you wherever you go.

Why We Share This

UNESCO calls craft “the most tangible form of intangible heritage.” Understanding the journey from seed to stitch transforms a poncho into a living story—one that connects you to artisans, culture, and the sustainability of slow fashion.

Made by

This product is made by our artisans community partner - Reyaan. 

Reyaan—meaning living together—is artisan-led initiative in Kutch, Gujarat. At its core are 20 skilled Kala cotton weavers, 15 Rabari embroidery artisans, 3 Ajrakh printing families, a growing team of tailors, and many more hands that bring textiles to life with care and precision. From soil to stitch, Reyaan is where tradition meets sustainability—celebrating the resilience of land and the artistry of its people.

When you wear our Kala Cotton Poncho, you don’t just wear a garment—you wear the spirit of Kutch, woven with purpose and pride.