Handwoven sarees, shawls, three-piece outfits, fatuas, nakshi kanthas, bedsheets, and various bags crafted by Rakhine women have become a hit among domestic and international tourists.
These traditional textiles are made in the Rakhine paras, especially in Chakaria’s Harbang, Chowdhury Para in Teknaf, and Maheshkhali.
However, despite the growing demand, the makers of these clothes are facing challenges.
Ukathing, President of the Rakhine Buddhist Welfare Association, expressed concern that young Rakhine women are losing interest in weaving due to a lack of support.
He urged the government to provide financial assistance, such as access to bank loans and cloth-making equipment, to attract Rakhine in soaring interest to craft higher-quality textiles.
Photo: Rajin Saleh
