This article is part of a series of essays submitted by the fellows of 2023 of a program by KAL. The fellows are local young people who are Kharnakpa but have settled close to Leh city. In an immersive experience over 2 weeks in their native place last winter, each fellow gathered information on lifestyle, culture, crafts, shepherding etc of their community. The first essay is by Stanzin Konchok on the handspun and handwoven yak hair tent called Reibo. Thank you so much Konchok for your informative essay. THE TRADITIONAL NOMADIC TENT OF THE CHANGPA TRIBE. 1. INTRODUCTION. A. DEFINITION OF REIBO Reibo refers to the traditional nomadic tent utilized by the changpa tribe. Primarily found in the...
Last month we had the opportunity to introduce photographer Ayan Biswas to the community of Kharnak. We have always been wanting to take back our textiles to their source and finally could do so. Here we are presenting four of our products, worn by the locals - the people who sold us the wool - and share more about them, their lifestyle and beliefs. We hope you enjoy this! Dolma AngmoFor Dolma Angmo it is essential to pray every day.Since this summer on request of a holy monk, every night one person of each household attends a praying session in the community hall of the camp.To the people of Kharnak prayer is important as they are often facing challenges regarding...
Today I’d like to tell you more about the carpets from the region of Changthang. Since last year we are working on these carpets and are including them in our home textiles. In the local language they are called “Tsug Den”. Its name is made of the words Tsug (from tsug-ches: putting something on the ground) and den (mattress). A Tsug Den on the ground in the tent of nomad of Kharnak. At the back, hanging down is a Tsug Dul, a blanket. The classic size is 90cm x 175cm, however this can vary and one can find Tsug Dens in many sizes depending on the use. The remarkable thing about these carpets is that they consist of panels which...
