• January to March 2025 Article ID: NSS9062 Impact Factor:8.05 Cite Score:115 Download: 12 DOI: https://doi.org/ View PDf

    Koran-Crochet Lace: A Cultural Art and Its Sociological Relevance Among the Alavi Bohra Community of Baroda

      Ms. Tehzib Barodawala
        Temp. Assistant Professor (Sociology) Faculty of Arts, The Maharaja Sayajirao University, Vadodara (Gujarat)
      Dr. Virendra Singh
        Assistant Professor, Head (Sociology) Faculty of Arts, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara (Gujarat)

Abstract: Crochet, a textile art with enigmatic beginnings, has shown diverse cultural expressions across nations.  Within the Alavi Bohra community—a Shia Muslim group residing in Vadodara (formerly Baroda), India—this skill possesses distinct symbolic and aesthetic significance.  Locally referred to as "Koran," the gold and/or silver crochet lace utilized in traditional women's garments embodies artistic legacy and social identity.  This study examines the societal importance of this art, its contribution to community identity, and the factors contributing to its progressive decrease among the youth.  The investigation employed comprehensive interviews with two women from the community who has expertise in Koran production.   Utilizing historical, ethnographic, and sociological perspectives, the study emphasizes how this creative legacy functioned not only as a manifestation of creativity and talent but also as an instrument for gendered socialization, cultural preservation, and communal cohesion.

Keywords: Koran, Alavi Bohra community, minority within a minority, crochet.