Join Geeta Khandelwal for an introduction to the distinguished world of Indian textiles.

In many countries and cultures, people have recycled old clothes to create new beautiful quilts. Across rural and pastoral Maharashtra, women make quilts called godharis purely for utilitarian use. Fashioned from scraps without designs or patterns, the godharis speak volumes about the hard work, survival and expression of artistry of individual women. The traditional yet distinctive Maharashtrian godhari, among the simplest of Indian quilts, is usually made from weathered saris of regional fabrics, randomly placed layer upon layer - sometimes as many as six layers at a time.

As the Indian economy grows and access to saris of synthetic fabrics become more cost-effective, the survival of this age-old craft is questionable. With support for this craft, the traditional godhari may well be adapted and modified to meet modern needs.

Geeta Khandelwal is a quilt designer and collector. She lives in India.

Quilts and book, Godharis of Maharashtra by Geeta Khandelwal, will be available for sale following the program.