Where Tradition Meets Modern Design: Imlirenla Jamir's Naga Handloom Studio in Mokokchung

My name is Imlirenla Jamir. I am from Mokokchung district, Nagaland, and I am a textile designer specialising in handloom. I have been in this craft for 15 years.

I learned from my own family — my mother, sisters, and cousins. We also run a training centre for others who want to learn. We make mekhela in both traditional and modern styles, with 25 skilled workers specialising in different areas of the weaving process.

A single mekhela costs anywhere from ₹3,000 to ₹12,000 and above, depending on the design and complexity. What sets our textiles apart is the mix medium approach — traditional weaving blended with modern design touches, including bead work on the mekhela.

The biggest challenge used to be finding markets and getting our work in front of buyers. That has improved considerably — I have participated in exhibitions across India, including in Delhi and at Surajkund, where people are aware of handloom and willing to pay for it.

I will pass this skill to the next generation. My message to people across India: stop buying machine-made textiles and support handloom. Without your support, these skills will not survive — and the world will lose something irreplaceable.