One of the oldest and most significant centers for dari weaving in India is Mirzapur, located in the Varanasi district of Uttar Pradesh. The panja dari weaving process coupled with the excellent workmanship produces a spectacular blend of traditional and modern motifs.

The artform

The metallic tool known locally as ‘panja’, which resembles a claw and is used to beat and establish the threads in the warp (lengthwise strands). The technique derives its name from the tool and this weaving style is popular in Mirzapur. Panja dari and loom dari are the two categories for Mirzapur handcrafted durries. The durries are made of wool and cotton.

GI tag

This labour-intensive art was conferred with the GI tag in 2015.