ERI SILK

Meghalaya’s Thread of Tradition

The Story of Eri Silk

A tale that stretches back centuries and is whispered across generations - the story of Eri Silk, a fabric that breathes to life in the lap of bountiful hills of Meghalaya.

Eri Silk, known as “peace silk” celebrates the philosophy of non-violence i.e. ahimsa. The very nature of Eri Silk is inherited from the roots of the land where it belongs. In the cradle of the mighty Brahmaputra river, respect for all beings is the very fabric of life.

Ahimsa: The Foundation

Eri Silk derives its name from the Eri worm called Niang Ryndia in the sweet Khasi language. These gentle creatures thrive in Meghalaya’s natural bounty and feed on castor plants. Unlike the other silk production methods, the Eri moth emerges from the cocoon by itself, leaving a delicate opening when it is ready. Now the silk is available to be extracted safely without causing any harm to the worm. This wondrous process echoes Meghalaya’s deep-rooted belief in ahimsa.

The ancient tradition and the existence of Eri Silk date as early as 2500 BCE. For generations, our women, the guardians of the craft of sericulture, have possessed an unspoken connection with silk. They delicately spin the short Eri fibers into a luminous yarn whose sheen can leave one in awe.

Threads of Heritage and Culture

Eri Silk is more than a fabric, it is a symbol of the tradition, culture, and heritage of Meghalaya.
The traditional looms used by women are ingenious tools passed down through generations as techniques are whispered from mother to daughter. The process of making Eri Silk starts with silkworm rearing, followed by extracting the silk from cocoons, spinning and reeling of silk, and dyeing the yarn in various natural, vegetable, and organic colors through vegetable dyes.

Shades and Versatility of Eri Silk

By nature, Eri Silk is pure white and luminescent. The weavers use local plants and minerals to dye the yarn, making it completely organic. There are many vibrant hues that Eri Silk products adorn from the warmth of turmeric yellow to the embrace of green leaves and earthy red tones. Each shade is a tribute to the blessings of Mother Nature showered upon Meghalaya.

The warm threads of Eri Silk drape the wearer in cool comfort during scorching summers and offer a warm embrace during chilly winters. Versatile and regal, there is something mesmerizing about Eri Silk.

Nurturing and Preserving the Tradition

The Meghalayan Government is dedicated to preserving the legacy and rich history of the land.

Abundant stories and mysteries await to be unfolded and shared with the world. The story of Eri Silk is one such jewel in the crown of Meghalaya. The state’s first Eri Silk Village, Nongtluh, reflects our commitment to supporting the local tribes and shining light on this extraordinary fabric - Eri Silk, to the world.