Artisan Corner \ L. Valabhai

Lakhabhai Valabhai is a master weaver from Jam Khambhaliya, Gujarat. With 32 years of weaving experience, he has dedicated his life to preserving the ancestral weaving rituals of his village and documenting communal memory through textiles. He's currently training 5-6 weavers to continue preserving the craft.

Deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of Gujarat, Jam Khambhaliya weaving is renowned for its extra‑weft technique paired with zari borders and radiant hues, a tradition stretching back centuries.

It's been wonderful to witness the co-creative spirit amongst their family. His father currently weaves alongside him, while his daughter is learning from him. His son has been in constant contact with us to share pictures, backstories and techniques.

Lakhabhai is a recipient of a few awards for his contribution to and excellence in textiles. They include: National Award by Government in India (2002), Devadsi Maiya Bunkar Karigar Saman by WRDO (2021), Khemka Family Award of Recognition 2025 for Excellence in Textiles - National.

The family is also committed to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Every step of the making is a creative act between mind, body and spirit. Pictured here is Lakhabhai's brother using ancient techniques to make warp and weft threads.