Heavy ceremonial robes traditionally worn during convocations in universities may soon become a thing of the past with the University Grants Commission (UGC) asking universities to consider using handloom fabric for ceremonial dresses prescribed for special occasions, according to media reports.
"Using ceremonial robes made out of handloom fabrics would not only give a sense of pride of being Indian but also be more comfortable in hot and humid weather," it said in a letter to all the vice-chancellors.
The development comes against the backdrop of demands from a section in the academeia to do away with the heavy ceremonial robes, considered part of the country's colonial legacy.
Greater use of handloom garments for apparel would also promote the handloom industry in the country, the letter said, adding, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also emphasised on revival of handloom and improving the earning of the handloom weavers.
The UGC has further asked all universities to communicate with the affiliated colleges in this regard and "consider using handloom fabrics for ceremonial dresses".
Handloom fabrics not only form an integral part of our culture and heritage but also provides livelihood opportunities to lakhs of people living in rural areas, it said.
