Gadwal weavers’ devotional gift to Lord Venkateswara

Gadwal: As the annual Brahmotsavams of Lord Venkateswara begin at Tirumala, the attention of millions of devotees turns towards the sacred hills. But the grand celebrations also have a special connection with the handloom heritage of Gadwal. The traditional ‘Yeruvada Jodu Panchalu’, woven in Gadwal and offered to Lord Venkateswara for generations, stand as a symbol of this enduring association.

Gadwal sarees are renowned across the country for their fine weaving traditions. The Yeruvada Jodu Panchalu represent another important dimension of this heritage. Preserving such a centuries-old tradition requires not only the continuation of an old royal custom but also the transmission of specialised weaving skills from one generation to another.

The Gadwal Samsthanam may have disappeared, but the tradition continues. Times have changed, yet the loom remains, as does the devotion behind the weaving of the sacred garments.

The tradition is believed to have a history of more than 400 years, according to published accounts. It is said to have originated during the period of the Gadwal Samsthanam, when the rulers began offering the specially woven pair of dhotis to their family deity, Lord Venkateswara. Though the princely state disappeared with time, its successors have continued the tradition.

What they weave are sacred traditional textiles used in the service of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala. According to published TTD Sapthagiri details, the panchalu are used to adorn the Moolavirat of Lord Venkateswara on the first day of the annual Brahmotsavams and subsequently remain in the service of the deity.

Preparations for weaving the sacred garments traditionally begin with the commencement of the Sravana month. Unlike ordinary handloom weaving, the Yeruvada Jodu Panchalu are woven on a special ‘Namala Maggam’, requiring several weavers to work together in close coordination.

The making of the Jodu Panchalu is believed to take around 41 days and is carried out with special discipline and devotion. Weavers sit at the loom and work with a sense of service, chanting the name of Govinda.

The tradition is therefore much more than the production of a handloom textile. For the weavers, it is a form of devotional service.

Published accounts state that the Yeruvada Jodu Panchalu are approximately 11 yards long. Their uniqueness lies not only in their length but also in their traditional borders, weaving technique, and the skill involved in producing them on the special loom. Distinctive Gadwal handloom border designs add to the artistic value of the panchalu.

For Gadwal weavers, the opportunity to see a garment woven by their own hands being offered to the Moolavirat is considered a rare honour. As the days pass, the plain fabric gradually takes shape. What finally emerges is not merely a piece of cloth, but a representation of Gadwal’s celebrated handloom craftsmanship and a sacred offering to Lord Venkateswara.

The continuation of the Yeruvada Jodu Panchalu tradition for centuries is the result of the commitment of the descendants of the Gadwal royal family as well as the skill and devotion of local handloom artisans.

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The Hans India