Panipat’s handloom legacy shines brighter with the Padma Shri award conferred on Khemraj Sundariyal, a beacon of innovation in India’s textile world. Over 60 years, his tireless efforts have woven Panipat’s fabrics into international fame.
Hailing from Uttarakhand, Sundariyal redefined Jamdani art by shifting it from delicate muslin to robust wool shawls, sparking a revolution in handloom production. National awards have long recognized his impact, but the Padma Shri crowns his journey.
Beyond tradition, he ventured into artistry by converting M.F. Husain’s iconic paintings into breathtaking tapestries. The vibrancy and accuracy make them indistinguishable from originals, highlighting his genius.
In 1966, Sundariyal moved from Varanasi to Panipat under government service, where he innovated Khes fabrics into bedsheets, covers, and more, diversifying markets. His tapestry developments turned looms into canvases for masterpieces.
He spearheaded fast-color dyeing, training weavers despite skepticism. Today, Panipat’s industry leads in quality thanks to this shift.
From a modest farmer’s family in Sumari, Uttarakhand, without weaving roots, Sundariyal endured long walks to school and social ridicule to master his craft.
Sundariyal hails the current recognition of silent contributors, predicting it will motivate young talents to preserve and innovate in handlooms. Last year’s applicant, he learned of the award via a phone call, filling his home with joy. ‘It’s like a dream,’ shared his daughter-in-law.