Keeping alive Garo tradition through weaves
Silse's Ethnic Edge is engaging local weavers to make traditional wear with Garo motifs
Dr Silse D Marak, daughter of historian Milton Sangma, is more than an academician. She is also a social entrepreneur who is helping several local weavers and artisans in Garo Hills to earn their livelihood. She launched her brand, Silse’s Ethnic Edge, in September 2021. The pandemic was yet to recede completely and local artisans were in need of jobs. This venture helped many to find a way of living.
Marak’s childhood was spent partly on the UCC campus in Barapani where her father was a lecturer. Then the family moved to Tura. She studied in St. Xavier’s School from Class I-VIII. They moved back to Shillong where she completed her HSLC from All Saints’ Diocesan School. After completing her PhD from NEHU, Tura, she joined the College of Teacher Education, Rongkhon, as an associate professor. In an interview with Meghalaya Monitor, Marak shares her journey as an entrepreneur.
MM: Do you have formal training in handicrafts?
SM: I do not have any formal training in handicrafts
MM: How are you helping rural artisans?
SM: Rural artisans and weavers are getting hired by me and it has become a source of livelihood for a certain section of the rural population of Garo Hills.
MM: Your brand is particularly known for traditional motifs. Can you elaborate on this?
SM: I use the diamond motif mostly in weaving. The significance of the diamond/hira/miksep (as known in Garo) motif is that there is a traditional belief that the diamond represents the eyes of the Garo/A•chik spirit. It is believed that the eyes of the Garo spirit are ever watching and protecting the safety of the Garo women. Hence, the Garos deem this belief to be an essential element in the safety of the Garo women and thus is an integral and basic part of my weave.
MM: What are your products?
SM: My products are waistcoats for men, waistcoats with collars for men, Nehru sleeveless jackets for men, shirts for men, kurtas for men, unisex waistcoats, stoles for women, pandra, necklaces, kotip or headgear and traditional kurtis/tops for women.
MM: How is the demand?
SM: I’d say the demand is pretty high because I receive bulk orders from government officials, private organisations and educational institutions, besides individual purchases and orders from individuals.
MM: How do you market your products?
SM: Through advertising, the participation in shows like Me•gong Festival, Wangala and Instagram page, etc.
MM: While weaving in Khasi Hills has gained media limelight, weavers in Garo Hills have not received equal publicity. What is the reason? What can be done?
SM: The reason may be because Shillong being the capital is more exposed to opportunities and facilities. Whereas Garo Hills has always been in the shadows. The concerned authorities also do not distribute schemes, financial support and subsidies, to name a few (that’s what I was told). Awareness should be created among the public on the importance of keeping the tradition alive. Government should intervene in the matter and ensure that equal opportunities are provided to all citizens of the state.
MM: Have you received any government support for your initiative?
SM: Yes, but I declined the offer.
MM: How do you balance your career and passion?
SM: Weekends and Holidays are totally reserved for my business. I don’t compromise with my career and vice versa.
MM: What is your road map?
SM: With continued support from all stakeholders, I intend to expand my business and contribute what little I can to the community, especially to those in dire need of employment.
~ Team Sunday Monitor
