The PAMPA – Textiles of Karnataka exhibition, set against the historical ruins of Hampi, presents a breathtaking showcase of Karnataka’s rich textile heritage. Co-curated by Mayank Mansingh Kaul and Lavina Baldota, the exhibition is part of a larger research and revival project by the Baldota Foundation. Textile scholars Pragati Mathur and Nupur Saxena worked closely with weavers, indigenous communities, and other stakeholders to bring Karnataka’s diverse textile histories to life.
With over a hundred handmade textiles on display, including Ilkal sarees, Lambani embroidery, and kaudi quilts, the exhibition highlights fabrics shaped by the hands of working-class artisans. Set within the 17th-century Mantapa Photo Gallery in Hampi, the exhibition seamlessly blends the ancient architecture of stone ruins with the fluidity of fabric, creating a powerful spatial narrative. The use of simple, non-invasive bamboo structures allowed the textiles to drape naturally, echoing their utilitarian beauty and craftsmanship.
PAMPA celebrates everyday textiles—lungis, sarees, and blankets—crafted by Karnataka’s artisans. These textiles are not just garments but embodiments of memory, tradition, and resilience, often shaped by women who carry forward crafts like kasuti and Lambani embroidery. The exhibition’s name, PAMPA, pays homage to the Tungabhadra River (Pampa-Teertha), symbolizing the flow and continuity of textile traditions, just as the river has shaped Karnataka’s history and trade.
In addition to showcasing the textiles, the event included a conference and performances, situating Karnataka’s textile legacy within its broader cultural and historical context. Through this revival project, the PAMPA exhibition stands as a tribute to the craftspeople and a recognition of their enduring contributions to the world of textiles.
