Khaddar is a type of fabric commonly used in South Asian countries. Its spelling may seem unusual to those unfamiliar with the Arabic language, but it follows the standard transliteration system. Its pronunciation is /kʰʌdːər/, with the first consonant being aspirated (indicated by the superscript "h"), and the double "d" indicating a prolonged voiced consonant. The final "r" sound is pronounced softly, almost like a vowel. Learning to recognize and pronounce words like khaddar can help us better understand and appreciate the diversity of languages and cultures around the world.
Khaddar, also spelled as khadi or khaddar, is a term used to refer to a type of fabric that is traditionally hand-spun, hand-woven, and made from cotton yarn. The word "khaddar" is derived from the Hindi language, and it means "hand-spun."
Typically, khaddar fabric has a coarse texture, and it is known for its versatility and durability. It is commonly used in the production of various clothing items such as shirts, kurta, sarees, shawls, and other garments. Khaddar is often preferred in regions with a hot climate as it allows air to pass through, thereby providing ventilation and comfort.
One of the significant features that distinguish khaddar from other fabrics is its association with the Indian independence movement. During the early 20th century, khadi or khaddar became an iconic symbol of resistance against British colonial rule in India. Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the Indian independence movement, promoted the use of khaddar as a means to boycott foreign-made textiles and promote self-sufficiency and independence. The spinning of khaddar yarn became a significant part of the Indian nationalist movement, fostering a sense of unity and pride among the Indian population.
Today, khaddar continues to hold cultural and historical significance in India and other parts of South Asia. It is often seen as a symbol of traditional craftsmanship, sustainability, and national pride. With the growing interest in eco-friendly and sustainable fashion, khaddar has also gained popularity worldwide for its organic production methods and minimal ecological impact.
The word "khaddar" originates from the Hindi-Urdu language. "Khaddar" (also spelled as "khadi" or "khaddar") is derived from the Sanskrit word "khaddara", which means "a coarse cloth made from hand-spun yarn". In Hindi-Urdu, "kha" means "raw" and "dar" means "having". Therefore, "khaddar" can be translated as "raw cotton cloth" or "cloth made from raw cotton".
"Khaddar" gained prominence during India's struggle for independence against British colonial rule in the early 20th century. Mahatma Gandhi, a prominent leader of the independence movement, promoted the use of khaddar as a symbol of self-reliance and part of his philosophy of swadeshi (self-sufficiency) and ahimsa (non-violence).