What is Pashmina Shawl?

The Timeless Elegance of Pashmina Shawls

Pashmina shawls, often regarded as the epitome of luxury and elegance, have a rich history intertwined with tradition, artistry, and culture. Originating from the Himalayan regions of India, Nepal, and Pakistan, these shawls are cherished worldwide for their unparalleled softness, warmth, and intricate craftsmanship.

The Origin and Craftsmanship

The word Pashmina derives from the Persian word “Pashm”, meaning wool. This wool is sourced from the undercoat of the Changthangi goat, a breed native to the high-altitude regions of Ladakh in India. These goats develop a soft undercoat to withstand freezing temperatures, making their wool an excellent natural insulator.

The process of making a Pashmina shawl is meticulous and labor-intensive. Artisans hand-spin the delicate wool into fine threads using traditional tools, a skill passed down through generations. The weaving process, done on handlooms, is equally painstaking, with weavers ensuring each shawl is flawless. After weaving, the shawls often undergo embroidery by master craftsmen, who use fine silk threads to create intricate patterns.

Unique Characteristics

Pashmina shawls are celebrated for their exceptional qualities:

1. Softness and Warmth: The wool’s fine fibers (measuring between 12-16 microns) make Pashmina shawls softer and lighter than regular wool products, yet incredibly warm.
2. Handmade Excellence: Authentic Pashminas are entirely handmade, ensuring uniqueness in every piece.
3. Artistic Embellishments: Many Pashmina shawls feature hand-embroidered motifs, often inspired by nature, such as flowers, leaves, and paisleys.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Pashmina shawls have been prized possessions of royalty and nobility for centuries. In the Mughal era, they were considered status symbols and were gifted as tokens of esteem. Over time, these shawls became synonymous with sophistication and cultural heritage, transcending regional boundaries to earn a place in global fashion.

Sustainability and Ethical Considerations

Pashmina production is inherently sustainable, relying on natural resources and traditional methods. The wool is combed from the goats during molting season without causing harm. However, the demand for authentic Pashmina has led to concerns about exploitation and counterfeit products. To protect artisans and maintain authenticity, the Government of India introduced the Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Pashmina shawls.

Styling and Modern Appeal

Pashmina shawls seamlessly blend tradition with modernity. They are versatile accessories, perfect for formal occasions or casual outings. Whether draped over an evening gown or paired with a winter coat, a Pashmina shawl adds sophistication to any ensemble.

Preservation and Care

Proper care is essential to maintain the quality of a Pashmina shawl. They should be dry-cleaned, stored in breathable fabric bags, and kept away from moisture and moths.

Conclusion

Pashmina shawls are more than just garments; they are timeless works of art that embody heritage, craftsmanship, and elegance. Owning a Pashmina is not just a fashion statement but also a celebration of an ancient tradition that continues to thrive in the modern world.

History of Jamawar Shawls

Jamawar is a special type of shawl made in Kashmir, India. The history of Jamwar shawls goes back to the Mughal period. Mughal Emperor, Akbar was very fond of Art and craft. He encourage the handicrafts work including weaving, Needle work, pashmina shawls and Jamawar shawls. originally Jamwar shawls designed in Turkistan, Iran, Iraq and some parts of Afghanistan. Mugahal Emperor Babur had very large group of artists, who can designed hand made designing shawls, curtains, carpets, chogas and and dastarkhans. These artists work for decades and make handmade articles and present to the King, in exchange king used to reward lots of asharfies and other eatable goods to the families of those bunkars (weavers.), Laters on all the mughal Baadshah and kings used to carries the same royal dresses.

Jamawar Shawls – The Making

Jamawar shawls were made by the purest pashmina available at that time. Threads used to dye with natural flowers colors. Exract of Flowers used to fill colors in shawls. Jamawar shawls are so soft and fragile as it is made by hand. It takes decades to make a single jamawar shawl. That’s why jamawar shawl is so popular. Modern, machine-made Jamawar known as Paisley Shawls. Now a days Jamawar prints shawls are also available Known as Amritsari Shawls.

As per the wikipedia : Jama” means robe and “war/var” is chest and metaphorically body

Najibabad – The Undiscovered City

Najibabad is a very small city located just 35 Km away from district Bijnore, Uttar pradesh. Najibabad is made from two words Najib and abad. Abaad means to establish. It was established in 1740 by Nawab Najib-udidaula or Najib Khan, a well known Rohilla warrior. That’s why its called Najibabad.

Najibabad – a Hub of Jamawar Shawls

As Nawab Najib-ud-daula was very fond of arts and crafts. He brought some expert artisans of jamawar shawls from Delhi  and setup a haveli in Dharamdass, This haveli is still present in Najibabad. where these artists, made jamawar shawls. Shahji Allahdiya was the head of the jaan Family. He started teaching the art of making jamawar shawls to the weavers of Najibabad, He was the master of Rafoo, (Darning). He has taught the many people the art of rafoogiri. Even Today most of the Muslim family in Najibabad are doing the business of Shawls or repairing work of Shawls.

Some of the reputed family doing shawls business are obviously Jaan Family, Mirza Brothers – Mirza Family, Ali Brothers – Ali House, Ahmad Brothers, Khan Shawls etc.

Najibabadi Shawls – Latest Trend

For the last few year, Some of the oldest and famous families started making these shawls again, known as Najibabadi Shawls. since jamawar shawls were the antique shawls and has limited quantity. So the makers has invented najibabadi shawls, which is made purely hand made needle work shawls crafted by new generation artists.

Najibabad is Also Famous For;

• Nawab Najib-ud-daula Fort
• Nawab Najib-ud-daula Tomb
• Chaar Minaar, Mehndi Bagh
• Old Rohilla Fort, (Now Thana)
• Jama Masjid
• Old Shiv Mandir
• Jamawar Shawls
• Najibabadi Shawls
• Najibabadi Food
• Handicrafts and Rafoogar (Darners)

• Pincode of Najibabad: 246763
• Population of Najiababad: About 88,000
• Current MLA : Tasleem Ahmad (Samajwadi Party)
• Current Chairman : Sabiha Nishat (Samajwadi Party)

Images Source: Wikipedia

• Images are used in this blog are the property of their respected owners. Images for representation purpose only, no commercial used. Do not claim for any copyright.

 Jaan Shawls Hosts Exclusive Showcase of Handcrafted Shawls in Delhi

New Delhi, [16th Oct. 2022] – Jaan Shawls is proud to announce a one-of-a-kind event celebrating the art and heritage of handcrafted shawls. The exclusive showcase will take place at Royal Palace, G.K., Delhi, and will be hosted by the distinguished Mr. Shahzada Jaan alongside Mr. Muddessir Mahfooz.

This one-day event will feature an exquisite collection of Jamawar Shawls, Paisley Shawls, Kashmiri Shawls, Pashmina Shawls, and Najibabadi Shawls. Visitors will get an unparalleled opportunity to explore the intricate craftsmanship and rich cultural significance of these iconic designs, which have been cherished for generations.

The event aims to raise awareness about Jamawar shawls, their historical importance, and their status as a cherished handicraft. By showcasing the fine artistry and timeless appeal of these shawls, Jaan Shawls seeks to honor and preserve a tradition that is synonymous with elegance and cultural heritage.

Event Details:

• Date: [16th Oct. 2022]
• Time: [4:00-8:00PM]
• Venue: Royal Palace, G.K., Delhi

This is more than just a display; it is a celebration of artistry, a tribute to heritage, and an invitation to embrace the legacy of handcrafted shawls.

About Jaan Shawls:
Jaan Shawls is a name synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship, specializing in the finest handmade shawls that blend traditional techniques with contemporary appeal. Their collections are a testament to the enduring beauty of Indian textile art.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Mohsin Mahfooz
[CAall or Whatapp 8287996284]

Join us for this enchanting celebration of artistry and tradition at Royal Palace, G.K., Delhi.

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