Udupi: Two veteran Udupi saree weavers, Sanjeeva Shettigar (85) and Somappa Jattana (89), will be bestowed with the prestigious "Nekara Ratna" award by the Kadike Trust. This highest honor is given in recognition of their exceptional contributions to the art of handloom weaving.
Shettigar, President of the Shivalli Primary Weavers Service Cooperative Society, and Jattana, Director of the Udupi Primary Weavers Service Cooperative Society, have dedicated nearly 74 and 66 years, respectively, to the craft. They are considered the oldest active weavers in the region, formerly known as undivided D.K. district.
Shettigar's mastery extends to the now-extinct pearl border weave, which he continued to produce until 2019. Even today, he remains actively involved in weaving intricate 60-count sarees with unique basket designs and providing design and technical support to fellow weavers.
Jattana is renowned for his exquisite cut border Udupi sarees featuring delicate 60-count chaukuli patterns.
Both weavers have played a pivotal role in preserving the eco-friendly traditions of Udupi saree weaving. Thanks to the efforts of the Kadike Trust, this once-endangered craft has experienced a remarkable revival.
The award recognizes Shettigar and Jattana's invaluable contributions to the heritage and sustainability of Udupi saree weaving.