Copyright © 2026 Authors retain the copyright of this article. This article is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

@article{207014,
        author = {Pallavi C},
        title = {REIMAGINING INDIGENOUS TEXTILE TRADITIONS FOR FUTURE SOCIETIES: A STUDY OF KARBI TEXTILES},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {13},
        number = {2},
        pages = {3768-3779},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=207014},
        abstract = {Indigenous textile traditions embody the cultural identity, ecological wisdom, and artistic heritage of tribal communities. This study focuses on the textile practices of the Karbi tribe of Assam, exploring their traditional knowledge systems, craftsmanship, and potential relevance in contemporary fashion design. Through secondary research and qualitative analysis, the study examines the origin, historical evolution, materials, techniques, motifs, colours, and socio-cultural significance of Karbi textiles. The research highlights the community’s deep connection with nature, reflected through their use of locally available fibres, natural dyes, and symbolic motifs inspired by their surroundings, beliefs, and social practices. Traditional weaving practices, primarily carried out by Karbi women, serve not only as a means of clothing production but also as a medium for preserving cultural narratives, identity, and intergenerational knowledge. The study identifies the factors contributing to the decline of Karbi textile traditions, including industrialization, changing consumer preferences, limited market accessibility, and reduced transmission of traditional skills among younger generations. To address these challenges, the research proposes revival strategies emphasizing sustainable practices, design innovation, documentation, and integration of indigenous aesthetics into contemporary fashion applications. The study introduces a conceptual design approach that explores the reinterpretation of Karbi textile elements while maintaining cultural authenticity. By bridging traditional craftsmanship with modern design sensibilities, the research emphasizes the potential of Karbi textiles to contribute to sustainable fashion narratives and promote the preservation of indigenous textile heritage in a rapidly evolving global design landscape.},
        keywords = {Indigenous textiles, tribal motifs, sustainable fashion, Karbi tribe, Design intervention, cultural preservation and revival strategies.},
        month = {July},
        }