The large Indian tapestry, weaved by stitches of diversity brought on invaders of different races, has intricate designs that show the roots of the growth of the Indian industries. From architecture to clothing, many industries have been influenced by the rulers and the rules of the time. Handloom is one of those industries.

 

The complicated Indian textile scene is rich with designs and patterns unique to specific states. Every textile has a story to tell here. And when something has a reason behind its existence, museums help us understand. 

 

 

You may have heard of natural history museums (thanks to the movie 'Night At the Museum') and Art galleries, but if you have not heard of textile museums while living in a nation that is one of the largest textile exporters, then you are missing out on the art that beautiful clothes have.

 

Here are some textile museums you should visit the second you are on your holiday.

 

Calico Museum of Textiles, Ahmedabad.

This extensive museum of textiles opened to the public in 1949. Calico Museum in Ahmedabad not only has a plethora of age-old handicrafts and fabrics stored in its many galleries but also stores the materials to create them. A particular favourite of the researchers and textile enthusiasts who visit the place is a wall of blocks that was used to add prints to the fabric.

 

Address: The Retreat, opposite Underbridge, Shahibag, Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

 

The Sanskriti Museum of Textiles, Delhi.

With multiple galleries, The Sanskriti Museum of Textiles is based in a large area where you can explore inside the building and out. The textile collection here is a peek into the handicrafts available in the Indian market and the traditions that tag along with it. The linen stored here was a private collection built with an individual's aesthetic taste. Everything here complements each other. This museum is a must-visit if you want to know more about the aesthetics of different fabrics brought together over 3 decades.

 

Address: Anandagram, Mehrauli Gurgaon Road, New Delhi.

 

The National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum, New Delhi.

Better known as Crafts Museum in New Delhi, the village-inspired design is enough to attract you to visit this place. Indoor and outdoor galleries all display the unique handicrafts made in India. Often there will be exhibitions that show off the textile charms of different states. You can also freshen yourself up with good food at the compound's cafe.

 

Address: Bhairon Marg, New Delhi, next to Pragati Maidan.

 

The Textile Gallery at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Mumbai.

The CSMVS textile gallery, which opened in 2015, is based on the nature and creation of textiles. Stitched and unstitched fabrics are stored here with photographs that let you experience the world of textiles in a better way. It also has incredible pieces on display, such as jhabla-topi worn by Jamsetji Tata and a 200-year old jacket worn by the Peshwa Minister Nana Phadnis.

 

 

Address: Mahatma Gandhi Road, Fort, Mumbai.

 

If you are a lover of beautiful designs on different fabrics, be sure to visit these museums and enjoy the history of clothing, one fascinating design at a time.