Sarees are not just a style, It's a feeling

 Sarees are not just a style, It's a feeling.

The Sri Lankan Saree industry is a vibrant and important aspect of the country's economy and cultural heritage. Sri Lankan sarees are known for their intricate designs, rich colors, and high-quality materials. 

The production of sarees in Sri Lanka is a complex process that involves many skilled artisans and craftsmen. The industry relies on the use of traditional techniques and methods, passed down through generations of artisans, to create beautiful and unique sarees. 

The most commonly used materials for Sri Lankan sarees are silk and cotton, which are locally sourced and of high quality. The sarees are often embellished with intricate embroidery, beading, and other decorative elements, which add to their beauty and value. The saree industry in Sri Lanka has a rich history, dating back to ancient times when women would weave their sarees by hand. Today, the industry is more mechanized, but many of the traditional techniques are still used to create exquisite pieces of clothing. The current saree industry in Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of sarees, from traditional to modern designs. 

Here are a few types of sarees that are currently trending in the Sri Lankan saree industry: 

1. Kandyan sarees: Kandyan sarees are traditional sarees worn by women in the Kandyan region of Sri Lanka. They are characterized by their vibrant colors, intricate embroidery, and unique draping style. 

2. Batik sarees: Batik sarees are made using a traditional wax-resist dyeing technique. They feature bold and colorful designs that are created by applying wax to the fabric in intricate patterns before dyeing. 

3. Handloom sarees: Handloom sarees are made using traditional weaving techniques and are known for their intricate designs and high-quality fabrics. They are often made using natural materials such as cotton and silk. 

4. Printed sarees: Printed sarees feature a range of designs, from traditional to modern patterns. They are typically made using lightweight fabrics such as cotton or chiffon, making them comfortable and easy to wear. 

5. Contemporary sarees: Contemporary sarees are modern and trendy designs that incorporate a range of styles and fabrics. 

They are often made using unconventional materials such as leather or denim and feature unique embellishments and designs. The current situation of the Sri Lankan saree industry is mixed. While the industry has shown resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, it continues to face several long-standing issues that hinder its growth and development. On the positive side, Sri Lankan saree producers have successfully shifted their focus towards e-commerce and online sales, allowing them to reach new markets and customers. 

The industry has also seen increased collaboration and support among stakeholders, with a focus on promoting sustainability and preserving traditional techniques. However, the industry continues to face challenges such as competition from cheaper imported sarees, high production costs, and limited access to financing and technology. Additionally, the lack of formal training and education programs for saree artisans remains a major issue, which hinders their ability to learn new techniques and create innovative designs. Despite these challenges, the Sri Lankan saree industry remains an important contributor to the country's economy and cultural heritage. By addressing these issues and taking steps to promote and support the industry, there is potential for it to grow and thrive in the future. And the Sri Lankan saree industry is a vibrant and important aspect of the country's cultural and economic landscape, and it is sure to continue to thrive in the years to come. 

The Sri Lankan saree industry has the potential to play a significant role in helping to overcome the economic crisis in Sri Lanka. Here are a few ways in which the industry can help: 

1. Boosting exports: The Sri Lankan saree industry has a strong potential for exports, which can bring in foreign exchange and boost the country's economy. With the increasing demand for ethically produced and sustainable fashion items, Sri Lankan sarees have a unique selling proposition that can help them stand out in the international market. 

2. Creating employment opportunities: The saree industry is labor-intensive, and hence, can create job opportunities for many people, particularly women who make up a significant portion of the workforce in the industry. This can help to reduce unemployment rates and provide livelihoods for many families. 

3. Promoting tourism: Sri Lankan sarees are an important part of the country's culture and heritage, and hence, can help to promote tourism in the country. Tourists are often interested in learning about the local traditions and customs of the places they visit, and the saree industry can offer a unique and authentic experience for them. 

4. Encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship: The saree industry in Sri Lanka is not limited to traditional designs and techniques, and there is room for innovation and experimentation. This can encourage entrepreneurship and help to create new and unique products that can cater to changing customer preferences. 

Overall, the Sri Lankan saree industry has the potential to contribute significantly to the country's economy, and with the right support and investment, it can help to overcome the economic crisis in the country. Because Small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) play an important role in the Sri Lankan saree industry. These businesses are typically family-owned and run and offer a range of sarees, from traditional to modern designs, at affordable prices. SMEs that sell sarees in Sri Lanka often source their materials locally, including fabrics, embellishments, and threads. This helps to support the local economy and ensures that the sarees are of high quality. These businesses are known for their personalized service, with owners often taking the time to get to know their customers and offering tailored recommendations based on their preferences and budgets. Many SMEs also offer customization services, allowing customers to create their unique designs. 

SMEs that sell sarees in Sri Lanka also play an important role in preserving the country's cultural heritage. They often specialize in traditional designs and techniques, passed down through generations of artisans, ensuring that these skills and traditions are not lost. In addition to preserving the country's cultural heritage, these businesses contribute to the local economy by creating job opportunities and generating income for their owners and employees. They also help to promote Sri Lanka's saree industry, both domestically and internationally, by offering unique and high-quality products. Overall, Sri Lankan SMEs that sell sarees are an important part of the country's saree industry. They offer a range of products, from traditional to modern designs, while supporting the local economy and preserving the country's cultural heritage. 

The Sri Lankan government can play a significant role in empowering the saree industry in the country. Here are a few ways in which the government can support and promote the industry: 

1. Providing financial support: The government can offer financial assistance in the form of loans or grants to small and medium-sized businesses in the saree industry. This can help them to invest in new equipment, expand their operations, and develop new products. 

2. Offering training and education: The government can provide training and education programs to help saree artisans improve their skills and learn new techniques. This can also help them to stay up-to-date with changing market trends and demands. 

3. Developing infrastructure: The government can invest in developing infrastructure such as textile parks and training centers to support the saree industry. This can help to improve the quality of products and increase efficiency. 

4. Promoting the industry: The government can promote the Sri Lankan saree industry both domestically and internationally through marketing campaigns, trade fairs, and exhibitions. This can help to raise awareness about the industry and create new business opportunities for local saree producers. 

5. Supporting sustainable practices: The government can encourage sustainable practices in the saree industry, such as the use of natural dyes and locally sourced materials. 

This can help to promote environmental sustainability and also create a unique selling proposition for Sri Lankan sarees in the global market. Overall, by providing financial support, offering training and education, developing infrastructure, promoting the industry, and supporting sustainable practices, the Sri Lankan government can empower the saree industry in the country and help it to reach its full potential. And the industry also helps to promote Sri Lanka's culture and heritage, as sarees are an important part of traditional dress and are often worn for special occasions and festivals. 

Written by- Sayuri Wijesekara

Design - Mihisara Bandara