In a testament to their incredible cultural creativity, the women belonging to the nomadic Lambani community of Hampi in Karnataka, India have achieved a remarkable feat by setting a new Guinness World Record.
At the G20 Culture Working Group meeting held in Hampi, approximately 450 Lambani artisans proudly displayed their exceptional skills and craftsmanship.
Their collective efforts resulted in the creation of an astonishing collection comprising over 1,755 unique embroidery patches.
Lambani embroidery, renowned for its vibrant colours, intricate details, mirror work, and diverse stitch patterns, is a cherished form of textile embellishment.
It is practiced in various villages across Karnataka including Sandur, Keri Tanda, Mariyammanahalli, Kadirampur, Sitaram Tanda, Bijapur, and Kamalapur.
This initiative aligns with the third priority of the CWG (Culture Working Group), which focuses on the ‘Promotion of Cultural and Creative Industries and Creative Economy.’
By showcasing the rich artistic tradition of Lambani embroidery, this endeavour not only highlights the cultural heritage of Karnataka and India but also contributes to the promotion and growth of the creative economy in the region.
According to Lily Pandeya, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, this remarkable achievement by the Lambani artisans has not only instilled a deep sense of pride but has also provided a significant boost to their empowerment and recognition within the community.
In the midst of the G20 delegates, the Lambani artisans shared their sentiments on this historic accomplishment and its impact on their lives and empowerment.
Expressing her delight, seasoned Lambani artisan Shanta Bai shared her joy and said, "We are overjoyed and honoured to have set a Guinness World Record. This achievement means the world to us as it showcases our talent and cultural heritage to the global community. We hope that this recognition will bring more opportunities for our community and help us uplift our standard of living."
The presence of G20 delegates during the event provided a valuable platform for the Lambani artisans to exhibit their exceptional talent and creativity. It facilitated the establishment of meaningful connections and potential partnerships that can further empower and uplift the Lambani community.
“Their exceptional talent and craftsmanship demonstrate the power of cultural diversity and the invaluable contributions of marginalised communities. This accomplishment serves as an inspiration for all G20 delegates to further promote and support cultural empowerment initiatives worldwide,” said a delegate from France.
Another delegate highlighted the significance of the Guinness World Record, emphasising that it not only acknowledges the outstanding talent of the Lambani artisans but also creates opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and cultural preservation.
As the G20 Culture Working Group meeting progresses, the achievement of the Lambani artisans serves as an inspiring testament to the cultural diversity and resilience within the G20 community.
The Lambani artisans themselves aspire that their accomplishments will serve as a source of inspiration for other communities and individuals to value and safeguard their unique cultural heritage.
"We are hopeful that our achievements will serve as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging other communities and individuals to cherish and preserve their own unique cultural heritage. Through our record-setting accomplishment, we hope to ignite a sense of pride and appreciation for traditional arts and crafts, fostering a deeper connection to our diverse cultural identities," Shakuntala, a Lambani artisan, told PTI.
The Lambani artisans' triumph in setting the Guinness World Record for embroidery patches signifies a significant milestone in their journey towards empowerment and recognition. Their exceptional skills, showcased amidst the G20 delegates, have not only cemented their place in history but have also opened doors for economic and cultural growth.
“This remarkable achievement serves as a testament to the Lambani artisans' unwavering dedication, and preserving their vibrant cultural legacy for generations to come,” a delegate from Italy added.
(With inputs from PTI)
