Bundeli Cotton Weaving and Khadi Tradition of Damoh

Damoh has a continuous cotton weaving tradition that predates the Khadi movement but was revitalised by it. The district Khadi Gramodyog unit was established in 1935 and continues producing handspun handwoven cloth. Local weavers on frame looms produce coarse cotton in 36-inch and 48-inch widths used for saris, dhotis, and industrial cloth. Traditional Bundeli cotton sari weaving uses a supplementary warp technique for the border design, creating a raised stripe in red or maroon on white ground. These saris are used for wedding gifting and at festival celebrations. Damoh cotton weaving has declined with industrial competition, but a revival cluster of 40 looms supported by Khadi board procurement continues to maintain the tradition. The cloth produced here is marketed under the MP Khadi brand at state exhibitions.