No. 4 (2024)
Essays

Unstitched Narratives: Cultural and ecological significance of Desi Oon in Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh

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  • Megha Chauhan,
  • Pramila Choudhary
Megha Chauhan
Nottingham Trent University
Pramila Choudhary
Concordia University
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36253/fh-2981

Published 31-12-2024

Keywords

  • indigenous wool,
  • cultural textiles,
  • unstitched textiles,
  • fashion and culture,
  • heritage

How to Cite

Chauhan, M., & Choudhary, P. (2024). Unstitched Narratives: Cultural and ecological significance of Desi Oon in Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh. Fashion Highlight, (4), 40–49. https://doi.org/10.36253/fh-2981

Copyright (c) 2025 Megha Chauhan, Pramila Choudhary

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Abstract

This paper explores the cultural and ecological significance of Pattu, a heritage unstitched textile from Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh, India, emphasising its potential to contribute to a more sustainable future for the fashion industry. Pattu, crafted using desi oon and traditional practices, embodies traditional knowledge of sustainable textile production.

We discuss how Pattu's production supports biodiversity, soil health, and traditional livelihoods, highlighting the adaptability of pastoralist communities in the face of climate change. We argue that integrating local wool and traditional practices into contemporary fashion can offer valuable lessons in sustainability and resilience. By showcasing Pattu as a case study, the paper advocates for a shift towards ethical and eco-conscious practices in the fashion industry, emphasising the importance of cultural conservation and the value of traditional ecological knowledge in shaping a more sustainable future.

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