Kusuma Rajaiah
- Nidhi Shegokar
- Aug 27, 2023
- 2 min read
Kusuma Rajaiah, a 60-year-old government official from Andhra Pradesh, India, is the visionary behind the creation and commercialization of Ahimsa Silk, also known as peace silk or Eri silk. With a patent and trademark for Ahimsa Silk, Rajaiah drew inspiration from Gandhi's principles and channelled his 40 years of sericulture expertise to develop this innovative approach to silk production.
Rajaiah's journey began when he questioned the possibility of crafting silk without harming silkworms. Through extensive research, he discovered a method to produce silk that allows moths to emerge from their cocoons and breed. In 1990, he initiated the weaving of Ahimsa Silk, and by 2001, his company began marketing this ethical alternative, gaining popularity both within India and globally.
Born into a family of weavers in Nagaram, Rajaiah's journey evolved through his academic pursuits, including a Diploma in Handloom Technology from the Indian Institute of Handloom Technology, Salem. His career with the Andhra Pradesh State Handloom Weavers Cooperative Society spanned from a Technical Officer role in 1979 to a Marketing Officer until his retirement in 2014.
Rajaiah's dedication to Ahimsa Silk was galvanised when India's First Lady, Mrs. Janki Venkataraman, questioned the possibility of silk production without silkworm casualties. Through persistent research, Rajaiah succeeded in creating a sample saree using the Ahimsa method, marking the world's first instance of silk production without harming silkworms. Further research led to a viable technique for bulk and commercial production of Ahimsa Silk by 2000.
Rooted in the philosophy of "ahimsa" or nonviolence, as advocated by Mahatma Gandhi, Rajaiah's invention aligned with Gandhi's hope for an Indian silk industry that respected the lives of matured moths. He underscored that his accomplishment fulfilled Gandhiji's aspiration to avoid the mass killing of silkworms for human commercial benefit. Commercialised in 2001, Ahimsa Silk utilises the same silkworm species, Bombyx Mori, which feeds on mulberry leaves.
As an advocate for nonviolence and vegetarianism, Rajaiah globally raised awareness about Ahimsa Silk and its ethical principles. His efforts contributed to an increasing number of individuals adopting nonviolent and vegetarian lifestyles. His innovative fabric reached notable figures, including the Pope, the Duchess of Cornwall, and spiritual leaders.
Despite his groundbreaking work, Rajaiah faced challenges and minimal support from government agencies. Undeterred, he remains committed to promoting organic sericulture as the future of the industry. Ahimsa Silk, while slightly less lustrous than conventional silk, offers superior softness and comfort. Its eco-friendly and cruelty-free attributes align with the growing demand for environmentally conscious products. Rajaiah's endeavours also uplift local weavers and labourers, providing them direct benefits and employment opportunities.