India is a land of cultural diversity with a rich tradition of handloom weaving. Each region celebrates its unique weaving techniques passed from generation to generation, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of handloom industries in India. However, most of these handloom sarees have reached a point of extinction due to industrialization, mass production, and the demand for fewer artisans.

 The ten handlooms that are facing the threat of extinction are:

1. Kanchipuram Silk

Kanchipuram silk from Tamil Nadu is famous for its texture and intricate work in zari. This was traditionally used solely for marriage, and machine-made fabrics are posing a threat to this because they are imitations at half the cost. Raw material prices are increasing and the scarcity of good weavers are also contributing to the decline of this art.

2. Pochampally Ikat

Originating from Telangana, Pochampally Ikat is known for its geometric patterns, created through a tie-dye technique. Though it holds an exclusive appeal, the craft remains in peril since mass-produced versions are flooding the market. The financial instability of the craft and loss of skilled artisans increase the danger.

3. Banarasi Brocade

Banarasi brocade from Varanasi is especially acclaimed for its luxurious texture and intricate zari work. However, this, once the epitome of extravagantness, is now competing with cheaper, machine-made versions. Moreover, low wages and disinterest among the youth are causing several artisans to forsake the craft.

4. Patola Silk

Patola silk, native to the state of Gujarat, is woven with a double-ikat technique for vibrant, symmetrical patterns. The handloom craft requires a lot of skill and goes almost unseen as weavers move away from weaving due to meagre earnings. Mass-produced imitations and changing fashions are also the other reasons for its fast dwindling.

5. Muga Silk

Muga silk from Assam has a golden color. Though the environment is posing threats to Muga silkworm, the number of skilled weavers is decreasing, and thus, this rare fabric is losing survival. Moreover, synthetic silks are also carving out a demand where Muga is losing its market.

6. Maheshwari Sarees

Maheshwari sarees from Madhya Pradesh are known for their lightweight cotton fabric and geometric designs. These sarees are in danger due to the rise of cheaper synthetic alternatives and the lack of interest among younger generations in learning the weaving craft.

7. Tangail Sarees

The soft cotton texture is specifically characteristic of Tangail sarees from West Bengal. What was once a staple has now crossed the border between endangered and extinct as machine-made fabrics compel the market to themselves. Decline in traditional weaving practices and consumer preferences have pushed this Tangail saree towards oblivion.

8. Chanderi Silk

Chanderi silk, from Madhya Pradesh, is well known for being soft and light in texture. It is not very popular, however, because most mass-produced textiles mimic its designs at a lower price. The loss of expert weavers and increasing cost of production also pose a challenge to the survival of Chanderi silk.

9. Himroo Textiles

Himroo textiles from Maharashtra's Aurangabad district come with intricate Persian-inspired designs made from silk and wool. But the craft is slowly disappearing because of fewer artisans and rising costs. Mass production textiles carrying similar designs at cheaper prices are also putting HM at a risk.

10. Khadi

A piece of fabric which epitomizes the independence of a nation is under threat from artificial-textured fabrics and fast fashion, making the younger generation grudgingly reluctant to don Khadi. Modern marketing techniques are also lacking.

India's handloom is integral to its cultural and economic heritage. Most of these handlooms are on the verge of dying out, and hence there is a greater need to conserve the artisans, proliferate sustainable fashion, and get young minds interested in these crafts. This will ensure that the legacy of the textiles of India in the hands of posterity.