Heritage to brand: Cumilla's khadi eyes global market | Others

CUMILLA, Sept 13, 2025 (BSS) - Khadi, the hand-spun fabric deeply rooted in Bangladesh's history, culture, and economy, stands as a symbol of identity, self-reliance, and resilience. Cumilla is regarded as the birthplace of Khadi. Centuries ago, the hand-woven Khadi fabric produced by its weavers earned fame across the Indian subcontinent. Even today, whenever Khadi is appeared, the name of Cumilla is pronounced with special reverence. Despite its rich legacy, Cumilla's traditional Khadi industry now faces existential challenges. Traders cite the influx of cheap foreign fabrics, dominance of machine-made textiles, shortage of skilled artisans, and limited government support in financing and marketing as major obstacles. Hand-woven Khadi is on the verge of fading out. Following its recent recognition as a...