crafted from culture

Aadyam Handwoven's pashmina cluster in Kashmir safeguards tradition, while inspiring weavers to pass on their craft

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To feel a finished pashmina is to hold a piece of history. The fabric is impossibly light, its softness almost ethereal, carrying with it the essence of the land and the culture from which it originates. In the heart of Srinagar, Aadyam Handwoven's pashmina cluster hums with the quiet energy of craftsmanship. Artisans sit at looms, their hands moving rhythmically, interlacing threads with precision born from generations of practice. As part of the Aditya Birla Group's initiative to preserve India's rich handloom heritage, Aadyam Handwoven focuses on sustaining traditional artistry while empowering artisan communities. This is where heritage and artistry come together, ensuring the cultural identity of pashmina remains intact while uplifting a community of weavers. “Pashmina represents the soul of Kashmir,” says Manish Saksena, Business Lead at Aadyam Handwoven. Established in 2019 and operational by 2020, the cluster is unlike Aadyam's other initiatives, which work with artisans in their homes. Here, under one roof, craftsmen have found a safe space to preserve their craft and cultural identity while earning a steady income. “This format allows us to maintain quality while creating a supportive environment for our weavers,” he explains.