EXPLORATION OF BOBBIN LACE MAKING IN GOA

Bobbin lace making is a centuries-old textile tradition known for its intricate craftsmanship and ornamental elegance. In Goa, India, the craft was introduced during the Portuguese colonial period and has since developed into a distinct local art form. This study explores the current state of bobbin lace making in Goa, employing a qualitative methodology that includes field research, interviews, and participant observation. Snowball sampling was used to reach practicing lace makers. The findings reveal a significant decline in the practice, with contributing factors including a shrinking number of artisans, reduced market demand, limited financial sustainability, and waning interest among the younger population. Additionally, the absence of institutional support and lack of formal transmission mechanisms further threaten the craft’s continuity. The study emphasizes the urgent need for targeted preservation strategies, including integrating lace making into educational curricula, offering policy-level support, encouraging community-led cooperatives, and fostering international collaborations to recontextualize the craft for contemporary relevance. These interventions could not only revive the practice but also strengthen cultural identity and provide sustainable livelihoods. The research contributes to broader discussions on safeguarding intangible cultural heritage in postcolonial societies facing rapid socio-economic change.