Machines & Process
The Original Pit & Paga Weaving Technique
Authentic Himroo is not manufactured it is carefully handwoven using traditional looms preserved for generations in Aurangabad.
Where Tradition Meets Patience
Himroo weaving is one of India’s most intricate handloom traditions. Unlike modern textile production, authentic Himroo cannot be rushed, scaled, or automated.
At Aurangabad Himroo Factory, the original pit and paga technique continues to be practiced much as it was centuries ago. Every piece is created slowly, carefully, and entirely by hand preserving the integrity of traditional Himroo weaving.
- Fully handwoven
- No automated looms
- Traditional setup
- Skilled artisan coordination
The Traditional Pit & Paga Loom
The pit and paga loom is the foundation of authentic Himroo weaving. In this system, part of the loom is set below ground level. The weaver sits above the pit, using foot control to manage thread tension while coordinating hand movements to guide the weave.
What makes this technique unique is the two artisan system. Two skilled weavers operate a single loom together, moving in rhythm to produce the intricate woven designs and rich textures that define genuine Himroo fabric.
Manual handloom system
Two-artisan operation
Underground pit setup
Precision thread control
The Step-by-Step Weaving Process
Preparing the Threads
Silk and cotton threads are carefully selected and prepared. The blend determines the softness, durability, and signature texture of Himroo.
Setting the Loom
Threads are mounted onto the pit and paga loom with precise alignment. Proper setup is essential for balanced weaving.
Coordinated Hand Weaving
Two artisans weave silk and cotton together in steady rhythm. This coordination gives Himroo its distinctive structural depth and intricate woven texture.
Pattern Formation
Traditional motifs gradually appear as the weaving progresses. The design is not printed or embroidered, it is woven into the fabric itself.
Finishing and Inspection
After weaving, the fabric is carefully inspected. Texture, pattern clarity, and weaving consistency are examined to ensure authenticity.
Original Himroo Technique vs Machine Made Imitations
Today, many fabrics sold as “Himroo” are produced using Banarasi Jacquard or power looms. While machine production allows faster output, it cannot recreate the authenticity, craftsmanship, and employment generation of traditional Himroo weaving in Aurangabad.
| Handloom Himroo | Machine Made Fabric |
|---|---|
|
Two artisans weave together on a pit and paga loom |
Single operator runs jacquard or power loom
|
|
Fully manual weaving without any machines |
Semi-automatic or fully automated production |
|
Produces about 5–6 inches of fabric per day |
Produces about 1 meter or more per day |
|
Generates employment for multiple artisans |
Requires fewer workers to operate
|
Crafted by Experienced Hands
Behind every Himroo piece are trained artisans who understand the rhythm of the pit and paga loom. This technique demands years of practice, steady coordination, and deep familiarity with traditional methods. Aurangabad Himroo Factory continues to support skilled weavers, ensuring that authentic handwoven Himroo remains alive as a living craft, not a reproduced imitation.
Preserving the Pit & Paga Loom
Over time, many traditional Himroo looms disappeared due to industrial changes.
Preserving working pit and paga looms is therefore essential to protecting the craft itself.
At the factory, these looms are not displayed as museum artifacts; they remain active, producing authentic Himroo through traditional handloom methods.
Witness Himroo Being Woven
Visitors are welcome to observe the traditional weaving process at Aurangabad Himroo Factory. Seeing the pit and paga loom in operation offers a deeper understanding of the patience, coordination, and skill behind authentic Himroo.