Megha Kyal

About

As a design historian and textile designer from India with a deep focus on South Asian fashion, dress, and textiles, I merge academic and practical expertise to explore the cultural complexities embedded in the anthropology of craft and the material culture of history. My work involves rigorous research, historical interpretation, and a strong commitment to advancing the understanding of Global South Asian textiles. This commitment is evident in my research publications, exhibitions, lectures, and academic conferences, all of which aim to engage and interest the audience in the rich and diverse world of South Asian textiles. My approach emphasises the importance of decolonising perspectives, particularly in the context of post-colonial studies, feminist identity, and the global design economy, while also ensuring the accurate representation of craft traditions through thorough documentation and engagement with artisans’ narratives.

My dissertation builds on the research of Eiluned Edwards and Judy Frater, focusing on the identity of craft and women among the Rabari of Kachchh. By integrating critical approaches from postcolonial studies, feminist theory, and the global design economy, the research aims to refine existing arguments and introduce new insights. It explores the evolving roles of women in craft as sites of cultural expression, heritage preservation, and gender negotiation, empowering them within the socio-political context of Kutch. This aspect of the research is particularly inspiring and deserves the support of the academic and professional community. Additionally, the study critiques the influence of Western design practices on local craft knowledge, using case studies and participant observation to highlight the complexities of identity and cultural negotiation among Rabari women. The research contributes to the understanding of contemporary nomadic material culture, particularly through the medium of embroidery.