'Natural dye can help protect environment'
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 07 2023: Stating that use of leaves and plants for natural dyeing will help in protecting the environment to a great extent, DM University vice-chancellor professor N Rajmuhon has called for promoting the use of natural dye instead of chemical ones for dyeing clothes.

The vice chancellor elaborated on potential of dyable leaves and herbs at the 9th National Handloom Day observance organised by District Handloom and Textiles office, Imphal East under the aegis of office of the development commissioner for handlooms, ministry of textiles at Sintha Handloom and Handicraft common facility centre, Thongju Part 2, Imphal East on Monday.

Speaking as chief guest of the observance, professor Rajmuhon expressed concern over the losing crafts and arts of the state including the rich knowledge of natural dye, and emphasised the need for promoting and protecting traditions inherited from the forefathers.

As Manipur has unique topographical feature, products from the state are also unique in every sense.

Among others, the art of dyeing is a tradition with scientific base that was passed down the generations since time immemorial, he said while urging for promoting natural dyes of the state.

Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) is a harmful chemical that depletes the ozone layer of earth's atmosphere and chemical dyes contain CFC.

The world is now diverting attention towards natural dyeing and it is time for the people of the state to revive the age old practice.

It will also help in protecting the environment, he reiterated.

Professor Rajmuhon further said that women are the workforce behind the handloom sector in Manipur.

However, involvement of men can take the sector to another height at the global platform, he said while hailing the contribution of different weavers' societies like Sintha Handloom in promoting handloom sector in the state.

Sintha Handloom and Handicrafts president S Bhubol presided over the function while Padmashree awardee (Fading Crafts) Konsam Ibomcha and Shilp Guru awardee (Handloom) Gurumayum Shanti attended as guests of honour.

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