When Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented traditional hemp slippers, known as pulla, to the priests of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, he did more than just offer a gift—he spotlighted an age-old Himalayan craft that carries within it a story of faith, sustainability, and resilience. These eco-friendly slippers, deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Himachal Pradesh, embody the spirit of simplicity and the wisdom of living in harmony with nature.

What Are Pulla?

Pulla are handcrafted slippers made from the bark fibers of hemp (Bhaang) branches and soft sheep wool. Traditionally, they are considered pure footwear, making them acceptable for use inside temples and during religious ceremonies where leather footwear is prohibited. In the snow-laden winters of Himachal’s mountains, they also serve as indoor slippers, keeping feet warm and comfortable.

The sole is crafted from durable hemp fibers twisted into ropes, while the upper portion is hand-spun wool, often adorned with colorful thread embroidery. This combination results in footwear that is lightweight, breathable, anti-bacterial, and surprisingly durable despite its delicate appearance.

Commonly referred to as Pulla, Pulle, Peru, Bhaang ki Chappal, or Pahadi Slippers, these shoes have been part of Himachali households for centuries.

Cultural and Religious Significance

In Himachal Pradesh, where temples and deities are central to community life, walking with deities while wearing leather shoes has always been prohibited. Pulla, however, are allowed because they are considered sattvic (pure). During deity processions and ceremonies, devotees wear these slippers as a mark of respect.

They are also connected to the mountain lifestyle. Women learned the craft of weaving hemp fiber into ropes and slippers from a young age, passing this essential skill from one generation to another. For many families, especially in Kullu and Mandi districts, pulla making was not just a craft but a way of life, reflecting self-reliance and harmony with nature.

Decline of the Craft

Despite its rich legacy, the art of pulla making began to fade. Several factors contributed to this decline:

• Cheap Alternatives: Synthetic slippers and mass-produced footwear flooded the markets, undercutting the demand for handcrafted pulla.
• Exploitative Middlemen: Artisans were paid as little as ₹15–20 per pair, making the craft economically unviable.
• Legal Ambiguity of Hemp: The hemp plant, though traditionally used for fiber, fell under legal restrictions due to its association with narcotics, creating hurdles for artisans.
• Changing Lifestyles: Younger generations moved away from traditional skills, seeking better income opportunities in cities.

What was once a celebrated household craft became nearly extinct, remembered only in the remote valleys of Himachal.

The Revival Movement

The decline of pulla could have been permanent if not for the efforts of social entrepreneurs and women-led self-help groups. Designers and organizations stepped in to revive the tradition by:

• Organizing Artisans and linking them with government schemes.
• Upskilling Women in processing hemp, wool, and cotton into high-quality products.
• Modernizing Designs to make pulla appealing to contemporary lifestyles.
• Fair Wages: Today, artisans earn nearly 15 times more than before.
• Community Empowerment: Over 200 women are now engaged in this craft, preserving heritage while generating sustainable livelihoods.

The Ministry of Textiles has also supported this revival by registering artisans with Pehchan Cards, ensuring recognition, training, and financial support.

Why Pulla Matter Today

In a world dominated by synthetic and disposable products, pulla stand out as symbols of sustainability and cultural authenticity.

Key Features:

• Eco-Friendly: Made from hemp, wool, and other natural fibers.
• Durable & Functional: Lightweight yet warm, perfect for both indoor wear and snow.
• Health Benefits: Natural acupressure and antibacterial properties.
• Cultural Value: Strongly associated with Himachali traditions and temple practices.

By wearing pulla, one doesn’t just wear a slipper but participates in a centuries-old tradition of conscious living.

A Symbol of Faith and Sustainability

Prime Minister Modi’s gesture of gifting pulla to the priests of Kashi Vishwanath Temple highlighted more than a craft—it revived a cultural conversation. These slippers symbolize purity, humility, and sustainability, aligning with India’s larger ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family).

For Himachali women, this revival is more than income—it is dignity, empowerment, and the continuation of ancestral knowledge. For the world, pulla serve as a reminder that sustainable practices and cultural heritage can walk hand in hand, quite literally.

Conclusion

The journey of Himachali pulla—from a near-extinct craft to a symbol of cultural pride—shows the resilience of tradition when nurtured with innovation. By embracing these slippers, we are not just supporting local artisans but also treading lightly on the planet.

What started as a humble mountain necessity has now become a cultural ambassador, connecting the Himalayan past with India’s sustainable future.