Santosh Kumar Rajanna Sircilla:

A town where the rhythmic sound of looms once echoed from almost every household and handloom weaving was once the backbone of thousands of families, Sircilla has carved a distinct identity for itself through its rich textile heritage.

While the handloom sector has witnessed several changes over the years, the dedication, craftsmanship and skill of weavers have continued to define the town’s legacy. Adding a new symbol to this heritage, a ‘Jota’ (traditional loom shuttle used by weavers) statue has taken shape at the Sircilla Collectorate junction.

More than just a sculpture, the statue stands as a tribute to generations of weavers who spent their lives behind the looms. The installation showcases the journey of transforming yarn into fabric, highlighting the hard work, artistry and technical expertise involved in the weaving process.

For Sircilla, handloom is not merely a profession but an important chapter in its social and economic history. To preserve this legacy and introduce it to future generations, 3D models depicting various stages of textile production have also been developed around the junction.

From cotton to yarn and from yarn to fabric, every stage reflects the patience, precision and creativity of weavers. The initiative aims to present the complete story of Sircilla’s textile tradition at one location and highlight the unique contribution of the weaving community.

The installation is part of the development works taken up at Ragudu bypass junction at a cost of Rs 3.10 crore. Beyond beautification, the project is expected to emerge as a cultural landmark reflecting Sircilla’s handloom identity.

The new attraction is likely to provide visitors an opportunity to understand the town’s textile heritage and the contribution of weavers.

At a time when the handloom sector continues to face challenges, the ‘Jota’ statue serves as a reminder of the resilience, skill and pride of the weaving community.

By bringing together the story of Sircilla’s looms, the craftsmanship of its weavers and the journey behind its textiles, the ‘Jota’ statue marks a significant step towards preserving and promoting the town’s handloom legacy.