Knitting the Past: Uncovering the History of Lahauli Socks

By 1940, after a century of missionary work, the center in Keylong, Lahaul, shuttered its doors, having made little headway in converting the local populace save for a few Ladakhi migrants. Yet, this mission proved to be a blessing in disguise for the locals. In 1862, the missionary wives took initiative, establishing a knitting school for Lahauli women to learn the art of crafting socks in the German style. This endeavour provided a platform for local women to hone their knitting skills, innovate indigenous motifs, and commercialize their craft. Thus, the celebrated Lahauli socks we know today owe their existence to the dedication of these missionary spouses.

Crafted from indigenous wool sheared from local sheep, Lahauli socks and gloves are meticulously knit in sections using four double-pointed needles. The intricate patterns adorning the socks, known locally as "dashi," incorporate up to eight colors and feature a symphony of motifs such as Bumchang, Lari, Zildan, Kuru, Thingma, and Kyog. These motifs, each steeped in local lore, lend each pair of socks its unique charm.