Why are Kashmiri Pashmina Shawls Famous?

The word ‘Pashmina’ is a symbol of warmth, luxury, and ultimate comfort. As per the literal meaning of the ‘Pashm’ which means soft gold, Pashmina shawls remain soft and cozy on the skin. This makes Pashmina an incredible elite and classy choice for people around the world.

If you are wondering why this wrap is so popular worldwide, then let us identify the reasons that make Pashmina shawls ‘sought after’.

What makes Kashmiri pashmina shawls famous?

The pashmina shawls are crafted after a lengthy and labor-intensive process in which first the Cashmere wool of a Himalayan goat is acquired and then processed in several steps to get the best-in-class Kashmiri Pashmina. It is not just the process that makes Pashmina special but many other reasons too.

Here is what makes Pashmina a prized possession.

1. It’s making

Pashmina is procured from the downy undercoat of the goat from the Himalayas. There is a specific goat that dwells in the Changthang area of Ladakh, an area over 14000 feet above sea level. Finding Changthangi goats is the first milestone in the making of the Pashmina shawls. The wool is collected from the goat and then the Kashmiri artisans start processing the same. With a lot of patience and perseverance, the wool lumps are spun and converted to fine yarn.

2.  A work of skilled artisans

Pashmina has continued to remain an epitome of richness and royalty since it was discovered in the 15th century by Syed Ali Hamdani. Pashmina is intricately carved by skilled and proficient Kashmiri artisans. It may also interest you to know that Pashmina is still a family affair. The knowledge and knack for making Pashmina shawls run in the family. While women clean or spin Cashmere, men weave and embroider interesting patterns on the shawls.

3.  Superior Quality

Kashmiri Pashmina shawls and wraps are undeniably one of the most desired garments around the globe. The artisans gather the Cashmere yarn and sort them, based on the texture. They spend several days spinning and weaving to create an authentic and superior-quality pashmina shawl. These shawls speak volumes about the hard work, time, and commitment of the Kashmiri artisans. Pashmina shawls go through several steps and hands of expert and experienced craftsmen before it is made available for selling, ensuring a premium quality product.

4.  Lightweight and Warm

While a regular woolen shawl may seem heavy on the body, Pashmina shawls not only weighs lighter but also keeps you warmer than you may expect. Since the cashmere yarn is a few microns in diameter, the shawl weighs not more than 300 to 400 grams. This makes the shawl easy to use and convenient to carry. Since the wool is extracted from goats who survive extreme cold and a temperature of -40 degrees C, these shawls can be considered a natural insulator. Also, it is a breathable fabric that does not make you sweaty after long hours of use.

5.  A variety of embroidery

Other than plain and solid Pashmina shawls, there are many embroidered Pashmina pieces available too. If you are looking for something more dignified and exquisite, then explore embroidered Pashmina shawls offered by Angad creations. The statement pieces like Black Pure Pashmina Shawl with Papier Mache and Tilla Border Design and Beige Pure Pashmina Shawl with Paisley Palla Embroidery can give you an exemplary look!

Pashmina shawls are a part of a years-old heritage and are considered as Heirloom pieces, passed onto several generations. They are soaring in demand not only in India but across the globe. Consider buying pashmina shawls to add to your elegance and aesthetics.