Part of: Jammu And Kashmir Gk set 24

Which hand spun shawl, woven and embroidered in Nepal and Kashmir, is\ made with wool coming from changthangi, a special breed of goat, \ indigenous to the high altitudes of Himalayas?

Category: Jammu And Kashmir Gk

Hint: Consider the specific breed of goat and the region where the wool is sourced.

Correct Answer: A) Pashmina

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, Civil Services

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

Pashmina shawls are a type of hand-spun shawl that are woven and embroidered in Nepal and Kashmir. The wool used to make these shawls comes from a special breed of goat known as the changthangi, which is indigenous to the high altitudes of the Himalayas. The changthangi goat is well-adapted to the harsh, cold climate of the Himalayas, and its wool is particularly fine and soft, making it ideal for the production of high-quality shawls.

The term "Pashmina" comes from the Persian word "Pashm," which means wool. Pashmina shawls are known for their exceptional quality and are highly valued for their warmth, softness, and durability. The process of making Pashmina shawls is intricate and involves several steps, including the collection of wool, spinning, weaving, and embroidery. The wool is hand-spun into yarn, which is then woven into fabric using traditional techniques. The shawls are often further embellished with intricate embroidery, which adds to their beauty and value.

The changthangi goat is a unique breed that is well-suited to the high-altitude environment of the Himalayas. These goats are able to survive in the harsh, cold conditions of the region, and their wool is particularly fine and soft. The wool is collected during the spring molting season, and it is then processed to remove impurities and prepare it for spinning. The wool is then hand-spun into yarn, which is used to weave the shawls.

Pashmina shawls are an important part of the cultural heritage of Nepal and Kashmir, and they are highly valued both within the region and internationally. The production of Pashmina shawls is a traditional craft that has been passed down through generations, and it continues to be an important source of income for many people in the region. The shawls are often sold in local markets and are also exported to other parts of the world, where they are highly prized for their quality and beauty.

It is important to note that the term "Pashmina" is specific to shawls made from the wool of the changthangi goat. Other types of wool or shawls, such as those made from Merino wool or Kangri lanterns, are not related to the production of Pashmina shawls. Understanding the specific characteristics and origins of Pashmina shawls is essential for recognizing their unique qualities and cultural significance.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Pashmina shawls are made from the wool of the changthangi goat, which is indigenous to the high altitudes of the Himalayas. These shawls are hand-spun, woven, and embroidered in Nepal and Kashmir, making them a significant part of the region's cultural heritage.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. Shahmina is not a recognized term for a specific type of hand-spun shawl. The term "Pashmina" is the correct term for the shawls made from changthangi wool.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Kangri is a type of traditional Kashmiri lantern, not a type of shawl. The question specifically asks about a hand-spun shawl made from changthangi wool, which is Pashmina.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Merino wool comes from Merino sheep, not from the changthangi goat. Pashmina shawls are specifically made from the wool of the changthangi goat, which is indigenous to the Himalayas.

Mnemonic: Pashmina: P for Pashmina, from the Pashm (wool) of Changthangi goats.

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