While wildlife is commonly spotted through jungle safaris or wildlife photographs, Khetaram Sumbra of Dhanau village in the border district of Barmer is preserving desert fauna using traditional Pattu weaving. The textiles crafted by his hands feature intricate patterns where the Great Indian Bustard can be seen alongside the sprinting blackbuck and soaring demoiselle cranes, making the local wildlife an intrinsic part of the design.
Blending Endangered Wildlife with Traditional Craft
The identity of the Thar Desert extends beyond its sandy dunes and rustic lifestyle to include a unique and fragile ecosystem. Combining this natural heritage with traditional Pattu craftsmanship, Khetaram is creating a variety of home decor and lifestyle items. Beyond traditional shawls and stoles, he uses these distinctive motifs to craft cushion covers, wall hangings, and decorative curtains. This specialized craft has expanded far beyond the borders of Dhanau, reaching major exhibitions across states like Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, and Maharashtra.
Spreading Awareness Through Art
Integrating these endangered species into fabric designs serves a deeper purpose than mere aesthetics. Animals like the Great Indian Bustard, blackbuck, and demoiselle crane form an essential part of the natural identity of the Thar region. According to the artisan, incorporating these creatures into everyday items helps convey a vital conservation message to the public. When people use or display these Pattu items in their homes, they also take a piece of the Thar wildlife heritage along with them, helping keep the memory of vulnerable species alive.
A Decade of Dedication to Ancestral Craft
Khetaram has been dedicated to this intricate work for the past 10 years, carrying forward a family tradition learned from his father and grandfather. Having completed his education only up to the eighth grade, he has successfully taken the fragrance of his local craft from a remote desert village to various states across the country. While the creation process remains rooted in traditional methods, thoughtful innovations and adjustments are continuously introduced based on modern market demands and changing consumer preferences.
