DIMAPUR — Exotic Echo Society (EES) on October 23 held its 2nd annual workshop with the Children Weavers Club in Diezephe village with 19 participants in the age group of 7 years and above and accompanied by 6 master weavers.
An update from the society stated the event comprised of warping and weaving competition, good touch and bad touch (body sensitivity), games, bracelet making and potluck.
It mentioned that the initiative began in 2022 with an intention to keep the dying art of traditional weaving relevant and positive by imparting the practice through the children who showed interest to learn and engage.
It stated that traditional backstrap or loin loom weaving is decreasing rapidly among the indigenous Naga women due to many alternative occupations that have emerged over the years. It cautioned that the time is not far away when the art would find its own end and to revive might not happen if proper attention and care is not given in the process of weaving.
It stated that Exotic Echo took the challenge to speak through engaging children with the vision that someday they would remember and say, they knew something of the past and their people.
Also pointing out that the Naga society is experiencing enormous challenges, it felt necessary to engage the new generation of children to keep them rooted and grounded of their identity and history, so that they could decide what is best for their future.
It stated the club not only teaches children on the process of weaving but also learns the art of communication, sharing resources, peer groups, body positivity and mental health. It added that a master weaver also learns to share her knowledge and skill while teaching a child how to weave and communicate in a language that helps in understanding and share the time of bonding.
The society further encouraged everyone to keep their roots alive and healthy.
In the warping competition, Mhashevelü Hoshi won the first prize, while Tsükulü Nyekha won the second prize.
In the weaving competition, Küveselü won the first prize, while Chitalü won the second prize.
The best disciplined prize was awarded to Veritolü Lohe.
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