Intangible Cultural Heritage of Rafugari - Invisible Fabric Mending

Abstract

Indian subcontinent is blessed with varied cultural heritage and dimensions. From the brocades of Banaras to the ikat of Andhra Pradesh, each complex technique narrates history, tradition, culture, history, and legacy preserved in the hands of the master craftsmen. However, we are going through paramount historical change dominated by digitization and technology. It is an inevitable mega-trend that has touched upon every aspect of social life building a different concept and model of social interaction. Likewise, an increasing consensus indicates the need to reconfigure traditional social and cultural structures. In the light of the information and communication technology (ICT), our tangible and intangible material culture entails digital acquisition, storage, preservation, and reinterpretation to acclimatize with the contemporary times. One such technique that requires substantial consideration for conservation is rafugari - a fine invisible darning technique used to repair and restore damage on age-old Pashmina/Kani shawls of Kashmir. Passed down from generation to generation, the dexterity of the artisan remains varied with very few masters of the trade. It is noteworthy that extremely skilled rafu work is extremely difficult to detect. Due to the availability of limited resources, it is important to document the secrets of the trade to preserve the technique for the next generation. My paper examines the role of ICT and intangible heritage culture to preserve the technique and establish its relevance in modern times as a sustainable practice.