Origin and Technique
Derived from the Tibetan word ‘Bo’, Bhotia refers to the classical Tibetan name for ‘Tibet’. An ethno-linguistic group of people, residing in the upper Himalayan valleys of Kumaon and Garhwal regions of Uttarakhand, the Bhotia community has relied on sheep rearing for their livelihood for years. In fact, the Bhotia Dann rugs or carpets are made from wool that is sourced from their sheep rearing activity. The sheared wool is washed to get rid of any impurities that may be present. The clean and washed wool is then dyed in natural colours such as indigo and madder. The spun wool is arranged in parallel lines onto a frame called a ‘warping board’. The weavers use their hands and feet to control the shuttle that weaves that weft yarns through the warp yarns. Once the weaving is complete, the carpet requires finishing. Each warp thread is tied in to knots to create the pile of the rug. After knotting, the pile of the rug is trimmed using a pair of scissors. The rug is once again washed to remove any dirt and impurities present and dried in the sun.
A Rich Artistic Heritage
Bhotia Dann weaving is an ancient craft that is believed to have started a hundred years ago, when a group of Johari women from Pithoragarh travelled to village Tarikhet (Almora district) to learn the technique of carpet weaving on a wooden frame. An exquisite and eco- friendly craft, it makes use of natural dyes and traditional weaving techniques to create intricate and beautiful patterns. One can notice an influence of the traditional Bhotia culture as well as Chinese art in the designs. Stylized geometric motifs, floral patterns and dragon designs are all symbolic of the rich cultural heritage of the Bhotia community. While the geometric motifs represent the mountains, rivers, and valleys of the Himalayan region, the symbols of swastika, lotus and the wheel are related to Buddhism. One can also see motifs of rhododendron, edelweiss and the snow leopard, which depict the flora and fauna of the beautiful Himalayan landscape. The image of dragon, inspired by Chinese mythology, holds a special significance for the Bhotias as it is symbolic of power, wisdom and protection.
