1. Origins of Cotton in India
India holds a proud place in textile history as one of the earliest centers of cotton cultivation and weaving. Archaeological evidence from the Indus Valley Civilization (around 3000 BCE) shows the use of cotton fibers spun into yarn and woven into cloth. Ancient Sanskrit texts like the Rigveda mention cotton, and early Greek historians admired “trees that bore wool,” referring to India’s cotton plants.
2. Global Influence of Indian Cotton
By the medieval period, Indian cotton fabrics—muslin, calico, and chintz—were prized across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Ports like Surat, Masulipatnam, and Calicut became global trade hubs. Indian artisans mastered hand-spinning and hand-weaving techniques, creating fabrics that were light, durable, and finely detailed.
3. Colonial Era and Industrial Transformation
The arrival of European traders in the 16th century, followed by British colonial rule, transformed the cotton industry. While India exported raw cotton, British mills manufactured machine-woven fabrics and re-imported them into India, affecting local weavers. However, the legacy of fine craftsmanship survived in small weaving clusters.
4. Introduction of Knitting in India
Knitting, unlike weaving, was not traditionally widespread in India. It entered the Indian market through colonial influence in the 19th and 20th centuries, especially for woolen wear. By the mid-20th century, advancements in knitting machinery allowed the production of cotton-based knitted fabrics. The softness, stretchability, and comfort of knits made them ideal for casual and innerwear garments.
5. Rise of T-Shirts and Pyjamas in Indian Fashion
In post-independence India, the domestic textile industry began integrating knitting technology with locally grown cotton. This shift gave birth to affordable, comfortable clothing like T-shirts and pyjamas.
- T-shirts became popular as casual wear, sportswear, and later, as fashion statements.
- Cotton pyjamas evolved from traditional loose nightwear to versatile loungewear, blending comfort with style.
The knitwear industry flourished in textile hubs such as Tiruppur, Ludhiana, and Kolkata, with Tiruppur now being the “Knitwear Capital of India,” exporting millions of cotton garments worldwide.
6. The Modern Scene: Sustainable and Stylish
Today, Indian knitted cotton garments combine heritage with innovation. Organic cotton, eco-friendly dyes, and advanced knitting techniques ensure that products like T-shirts and pyjamas meet global quality standards while supporting sustainable practices. The journey from ancient handpicked cotton bolls to soft, breathable knitwear reflects India’s ability to adapt tradition to modern needs.