Author: Md. Jasim Uddin
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/Bijmrd/04090008
Abstract: Muslin represents a pinnacle of Bengal’s economic and cultural heritage, transforming the region into a global textile hub during the Mughal era. Beyond a luxury fabric, it functioned as an integrated economic system encompassing agriculture, spinning, weaving, skilled labor, and trade. This qualitative study examines the origin and expansion of Bengal’s Muslin economy, its labor structures, its decline under British colonial policies, and contemporary revival prospects. Based on secondary historical records and institutional reports, the research utilizes Historical, Content, and Value Chain Analysis. Findings show that Muslin established a skill-intensive value chain boosting employment and trade. However, colonial commercial policies and the Industrial Revolution caused its rapid downfall. Today, rising global demand for eco-friendly, heritage luxury products offers new potential for Muslin. Ensuring GI protection, branding, skill development, and public-private partnerships can establish Muslin as a key driver for export diversification and sustainable economic development.
Keywords: Muslin, Dhaka Muslin, Bengal Economy, Handloom Industry, Colonial Economy, Value Chain.
Page No: 79-87