Blog on Indian Crafts and Craftspeople - Metaphor Racha.

Khadi Cushion Covers: Beauty with Purpose

Is your living room feeling a little dull? We have all been there. As the founder of Metaphor Racha, a craft-based brand rooted in Khadi, I genuinely believe that a small, thoughtful change, like Khadi cotton cushion covers, can breathe new energy into your home. Let me show you how these humble, handcrafted beauties are more than just home decor. They're heritage, comfort, and conscience—all woven into one. Why do Khadi Cushion Covers Matter? Skillfully Handcrafted Each Khadi cushion cover we offer is ambara charaka handspun and handwoven by artisans...

Khadi Jamkhana from Karnataka.

Have you ever wanted to bring home something that doesn't just sit in your space but speaks? That breathes stories of soil, skill, and slow time. For me, that something is the Khadi Jamkhana — a textile treasure from Karnataka. At Metaphor Racha, we work with craftspeople who still spin cotton on the ambara charkha, weave on traditional looms, and dye yarns using VAT dyes. Among all our offerings, the Khadi Jamkhana holds a special place — because it is, quite literally, where the earth meets art. It's not just a...

At Metaphor Racha, we believe in bridging the gap between rural craftsmanship and contemporary living. Our collection of hand-quilted quilts and bedspreads is more than just functional bedding; it is a soulful celebration of Kowdhi, the traditional quilt of North Karnataka. Each Kowdhi quilt is hand-stitched by women from Dambal, a small village known for its enduring commitment to sustainable craftsmanship. These women carry generations of tradition, resourcefulness, and an innate sense of artistry. Their work isn't just about making quilts—it's about preserving a way of life. A Quilt of...

Back to the Printing Table After almost a year of taking a break from making block-printed Khadi sarees, last July, I decided to get back to the printing table again — the smell of dyes, the rhythmic tap of the block against the fabric, and the joy of watching patterns come to life. It felt like it was time to return. While we have always woven 56-count Khadi fabric in Karnataka, I wondered if the sarees could be lighter, with a distinct fall and a slightly richer texture. So, I...

In a world filled with fast fashion and mass production, handcrafted textiles like khadi towels celebrate tradition and sustainability. These towels are more than just bathroom essentials; they offer a pleasant sensory experience, help us connect with our heritage, and address our concerns about living ethically. Choosing khadi towels is an excellent step toward a more mindful and responsible lifestyle! What Makes Khadi Towels Special? When I was a child, my grandmother always preferred khadi towels. I didn't understand why she chose these simple items instead of colourful, machine-made ones....

What is Ambar Charkha?

Ambar Charkha: The Silent Revolution in Sustainable Spinning A nation's strength lies in its people's self-reliance. The Ambar Charkha embodies this spirit, turning human effort into threads of economic freedom. The Ambar Charkha is a mechanical hand-operated spinning tool—a modern evolution of India's traditional spinning wheel. Unlike the Gandhi Charkha or Box Charkha, which spin a single thread at a time, the Ambar Charkha allows multiple threads to be spun simultaneously, depending on the number of spindles, usually between four and twelve spindles. A six spindle Ambar Charkha. The Inception...

The Complete Guide to Khadi Fabric Care

Khadi requires thoughtful yet minimal care to maintain its charm and longevity. Proper washing, drying, ironing, and storage will keep your garments soft and vibrant. This guide will cover essential tips for managing shrinkage, preventing colour bleeding, and using eco-conscious washing methods that not only keep your Khadi clothing in excellent condition but also contribute to environmental sustainability, a key aspect of the Khadi movement. Understanding Khadi Fabric Khadi is a handwoven fabric made from handspun yarn using natural materials like cotton, silk, and wool. It is a remarkably durable...

Khadi, Cotton, Handloom, Linen—these words evoke pride in craftsmanship and culture, but let's be honest, they can also feel tangled in a messy thread ball of confusion. The difference is in their distinct characteristics, from the raw materials used to the intricate production processes and their journey through the warp and weft of cultural significance that bring these fabrics to life. The truth is each holds a story. When we mix these terms, we risk missing their magic—the hands that spin them, the communities they sustain, and the legacy they...

Introduction: Why Your Bedding Deserves a Story Picture this: You're curled up under a quilt that feels like a warm embrace, carrying the whispers of generations. Unlike mass-produced bedding that fades into the background, a Khadi quilt is alive with history. Each stitch tells a story of artisans' hands, age-old traditions, and a planet-first philosophy. Let's unravel why Khadi quilts aren't just bedding but heirlooms for the modern soul. The Heartbeat of Khadi: More Than Just Fabric Khadi isn't just cloth—it's rebellion spun into thread. Reborn during India's fight for...

Looking for a blouse that goes beyond trends and speaks to your values while keeping your wardrobe easy? Enter the quilted Khadi blouse—a work of art that combines the heritage of Khadi fabric with the labour of quilting. These blouses are not just garments but a statement of sustainable luxury, comfort, elegance, and culture. So, what makes quilted khadi blouses unique, and why should they be in your wardrobe? Let’s explore their story, benefits, and how to care for these handstitched beauties. What are Quilted Khadi Blouses? The Khadi Legacy...

Khadi is more than a fabric – it celebrates India's heritage, sustainability, and timelessness. As the world moves towards conscious fashion, Khadi perfectly blends history and modernity. This blog highlights 15 reasons why Khadi should be in your wardrobe and how it empowers communities while being kind to the planet. 1 ) Historical Significance of Khadi Khadi, a hand-spun and hand-woven fabric, is unique in India's heart. It was reimagined during India's fight for independence when Mahatma Gandhi encouraged people to make clothes instead of buying British-made ones. This simple...

Khadi is deeply woven into India's history and cherished by its people as a representation of freedom, culture, and sustainability. Its unique handspun and handwoven characteristics symbolize a lifestyle that values simplicity and self-reliance. Here are the answers to the top 25 questions related to Khadi. 1) Are khadi products 100% natural? Khadi products are primarily made from natural fibres, such as Cotton, silk, and wool. However, not all Khadi products are guaranteed 100% natural, especially regarding specific blends or treatments. For instance, while Khadi cotton is typically made from pure Cotton, some Khadi fabrics may incorporate...

Block Printed Khadi Dupatta - Kuh

Block Printed Khadi Dupatta - Pesce

Block Printed Table Placemats - Black and Rose

Block Printed Table Placemats - Fiji Blue