Kishuthara Weaving Art of Khoma Village
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Art of Kishuthara Weaving in Khoma
Khoma Village, situated about 10 kilometers from Lhuentse Dzong in northeastern Bhutan, is widely celebrated for its masterful production of Kishuthara — a highly prized handwoven silk textile unique to Bhutanese culture. In this village, more than 80% of the women rely on Kishuthara for their socio-economic livelihood. This intricate textile art is primarily practiced by the women of Khoma, who have preserved and passed down the skill for generations. Kishuthara refers to an elaborately patterned silk kira — the traditional dress worn by Bhutanese women. The weavers of Khoma are renowned across Bhutan for producing some of the most exquisite and valuable kiras. During the winter months, when agricultural work slows down, the women of Khoma dedicate themselves to weaving Kishuthara. Strolling through the village, visitors often witness rows of women seated in simple textile sheds, skillfully weaving vibrant patterns with silk threads on traditional backstrap looms.
This weaving tradition extends beyond Khoma itself — nearby gewogs such as Minjey, Menbi, and Tsenkhar also contribute to the vibrant textile industry of Lhuentse.
What Makes Kishuthara Special?
Kishuthara is crafted from fine silk brocade available in Bhutanese markets. However, its true value lies in the detailed patterns and the time-intensive process involved. Some of the most complex Kishuthara pieces can take up to a year to complete, depending on the intricacy of the design. The price of each textile reflects the craftsmanship, skill, and time invested. Girls in Khoma often begin learning to weave as early as eight years old, starting with simple patterns before mastering the sophisticated designs that define Kishuthara.
Embracing Natural Dyes for Sustainable Weaving
In recent years, Khoma’s weavers have revived traditional dyeing techniques using natural dyes derived from plants, minerals, and organic materials. This eco-friendly approach not only produces rich, earthy colors but also enhances the value of the textiles in both domestic and international markets. Naturally dyed Kishuthara textiles are especially sought after for their vibrant and long-lasting colors, commanding higher prices and appealing to environmentally conscious buyers.
Kishuthara: A Symbol of Culture and Livelihood
Kishuthara remains one of Bhutan’s most treasured traditional garments, worn with pride during festivals like Tshechu and important family events. Beyond its cultural significance, weaving has become a vital source of income for many families in Khoma, especially during the off-season for farming. Today, Khoma Village stands as a living testament to Bhutan’s rich textile heritage, where tradition, art, and sustainability come together to create a timeless craft admired around the world.
Source: Lhuentse Dzongkhag Administration. Kishuthara – Vibrant Colored Silk Kira. Retrieved from here.