BJ-05. The Khadi of Cumilla: A Geographical Indication and the Pioneering Legacy of BARD

Abstract

Khadi is not merely a handmade fabric but an integral expression of Cumilla’s cultural heritage, embodying the creativity, labor, and identity of its people. The recent Geographical Indication (GI) recognition of Cumilla’s Khadi presents an opportunity to showcase this rich legacy on a global platform. The Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD), Cumilla, and its founding director, Dr. Akhter Hameed Khan, played a pivotal role in this journey. As early as the 1950s, BARD spearheaded efforts to revive the Khadi industry through the preservation of authentic documents, participatory research with local artisans, and the integration of traditional knowledge with modern development practices. This article focuses on three key aspects: the historical contribution of BARD to Cumilla’s Khadi industry, the ongoing applied research initiatives undertaken by BARD, and the emerging opportunities and challenges of establishing Khadi as a GI-certified product. Based on secondary sources, the study demonstrates that BARD’s initiatives not only revitalized the local Khadi economy but also offered a model for blending heritage with development. The journey of Cumilla’s Khadi is thus more than an institutional success—it is a symbol of national pride, where the past serves as a bridge to sustainable future development. With the right support and strategic vision, Khadi holds the potential to invigorate Cumilla’s local economy and inspire future generations.