Weaver’s thread: How Ramanaiah took Venkatagiri Jamdani from village looms to the world Stage
Venkatagiri: In each motif of a Jamdani saree, Gowrabathini Ramanaiah weaves more than thread. He weaves a life story that took him from poverty in a small Nellore village to international recognition.
Born in 1950 in Bangarupeta, SPSR Nellore district, Ramanaiah grew up in a Devanga family of traditional weavers. Formal schooling was out of reach. The loom became his classroom. Under his father’s guidance, he mastered the Jamdani technique, a centuries-old art known for its fine detail and labor-intensive process.
Over decades, Ramanaiah built a body of work that includes sarees, wall hangings and dress materials that merge tradition with new design. His most celebrated piece is the Kalpavriksham saree, inspired by the mythical wish-fulfilling tree. With motifs of leaves, flowers, birds and animals, the design speaks to harmony between nature and life. A wall hanging based on the concept was gifted by Prime Minister Modi to Bangladesh’s leadership, bringing Ramanaiah’s craft to global notice.
As industrial textiles pushed handlooms into decline, Ramanaiah worked to revive the tradition. He trained nearly 100 artisans in and around Venkatagiri, giving them skills to earn a livelihood and carry the craft forward.
His work has drawn national and global honors. He received the National Award from President APJ Abdul Kalam and the Sant Kabir Award from President Pranab Mukherjee. He also holds the UNESCO Seal of Excellence and recognition from the World Crafts Council.
“If the younger generation learns this art, the handloom tradition will never die,” Ramanaiah said. “My dream is to see Venkatagiri Jamdani continue for many more generations.”
Beyond weaving, he has invested in his village. He helped build water facilities, supported education, and ran training programs for weavers. He has also served in cooperative societies and temple administration.
Now, as mechanised textiles dominate markets, Ramanaiah’s journey from a child weaver in a struggling household to an internationally acclaimed artisan shows the staying power of handmade traditions. Each thread he sets on the loom preserves an old craft and supports a community’s future.
