Indian Invention Empowers Artisans and Boosts Recycling

Quick Smiles:

• Spectroscopy authenticates traditional silks, protecting weavers from fakes.
• Innovative devices support recycling and textile waste reduction.
• Thousands of pounds of fabric saved and artisans gain fair recognition.

An innovative startup in Bengaluru is helping to safeguard India’s centuries-old silk weaving traditions using advanced science. Employing spectroscopy technology, the WeaveSENSE device verifies genuine handwoven silks, ensuring weavers can confidently market their premium products.

With intricate artistry, Kadwa sarees—considered the crown jewels of Indian silk—are woven over months and can include precious metal threads, but forgers have made life difficult for traditional artisans. Recognizing this, engineers Vijaya Krishnappa and Ramki Kodipady founded KOSHA.ai and developed a portable spectroscope to distinguish authentic craftsmanship.

“We saw Kadwa sarees being sold for nearly 50,000 [rupees, approximately $553] but the artisans who wove them struggled to earn even a fraction of that,” Krishnappa told the Better India. “Weavers told us that customers simply didn’t believe them anymore. And without trust, their livelihood collapsed.”

Beyond authenticity, the same technology now helps with textile recycling. The team’s FibreSENSE device enables recyclers to identify fabric composition quickly and non-destructively, increasing accuracy and confidence in eco-friendly production.

“Every fiber speaks a different language,” Kodipady told the Better India. “FibreSENSE is the interpreter. In seconds, it tells you whether a fabric is cotton, polyester, wool, silk, viscose, or a blend, and in what proportion.”

Industry users praise FibreSENSE for allowing precise sorting and less waste. “FibreSENSE helps us supply exactly what recyclers or paper-makers need, like 80 to 90 percent polyester, or specific cotton–poly ratios for felt. It has made us more accurate and more confident in what we do,” said Gopika Santhosh at Green Worms Waste Management.

As a result, this technology has preserved over 22,000 pounds of textile from landfill, and more than 1,200 saree weavers now enjoy greater recognition and fair compensation for their skills.

It’s inspiring to see new technology honoring tradition while paving the way for a greener future. Stay tuned to Healthy Happy News for more innovations making the world brighter!

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