CBSE Class 8 History Our Pasts – III: Chapter 7 NCERT Solutions

In Europe, cotton and silk textiles from India enjoyed a very large market. These Indian textiles were particularly popular because of their superior fine quality and the exquisite craftsmanship involved in their making. Several varieties of Indian textiles were traded, including chintz, cossaes (or khassa), bandanna, and Jamdani. From the 1680s onwards, printed cotton textiles from India became a craze in England and Europe, especially appreciated for their beautiful floral designs, fine texture, and affordability compared to local alternatives. European traders often sourced fine cotton cloth from India, which was brought by Arab merchants. The Portuguese were among the first to bring cotton textiles, which they called 'calico', back to Europe. Similarly, printed cotton cloth, known as 'chintz', was also in high demand. The popularity was so immense that even wealthy individuals in England, including royalty, wore garments made from Indian fabrics.

Jamdani is a type of exquisite, vividly patterned, and sheer cotton fabric. It is traditionally woven by skilled craftspeople and their apprentices on a handloom, with the craft historically being prominent around Dhaka. The weaving process for Jamdani is very time-consuming and labor-intensive because of the richness and complexity of its motifs. These intricate designs are created directly on the loom itself, typically using a technique called discontinuous weft, and are often executed in contrasting grey and white threads.

The term 'bandanna' refers to any brightly colored and printed scarf, traditionally worn around the neck or head. It can also describe an oversized handkerchief used for similar purposes. The most common and recognizable pattern associated with bandanna is the paisley design.

The Agaria were a community in India who specialized in the craft of iron smelting. They possessed traditional knowledge and skills in extracting and working with iron. However, their livelihood and craft faced a significant decline during the 20th century. This downturn was primarily caused by the increased import of cheaper steel from England, which made the production of iron using traditional methods less economically viable. Consequently, the demand for the iron produced by the Agarias diminished, impacting their community and traditional occupation.