Asks varsities to shun silk and velvet robes
Bharathiar University vice chancellor James Pitchai gives away degree certificates during graduation day in Coimbatore on Friday. In a break with tradition, the varsity presented degree certificates to all its students - from graduates to Ph.D
CHENNAI: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has asked all universities in the country to use handloom dresses for occasions such as convocation to revive the handloom industry. Currently, universities use robes made of silk or velvet for convocation.
UGC secretary Jaspal S. Sandhu in a letter sent recently to vice-chancellors said that handloom fabrics not only formed an integral part of the rich culture and heritage of India but also provided livelihood to lakhs of people living in rural areas.
Quoting the Prime Minister, the UGC secretary said that the Centre had emphasised on revival of handloom and improving earnings of the handloom weavers. “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 the hot and humid weather.
Greater usage of handloom garments for apparel will promote the handloom industry in the country,” he said.
UGC has also asked universities to inform colleges about its communication. Reminiscing how the practice of using silk material in ceremonial robes started in Indian institutions, a former Vice-Chairman of TN State Council for Higher Education, A. Ramasamy, said when the British started universities in India they followed their model of functioning, including the convocation robes, after which all Indian universities followed the same pattern. “The use of handloom for ceremonial events is reminiscent of the unifying propensity of India’s tradition & culture and Sastra University is exploring appropriate and creative designs,” university dean (planning and development) S. Vaidhyasubramanian, said.
( Source : deccan chronicle )
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