Incorporating Pineapple Leaf Fiber into Meitei Traditional Textiles: A Cultural and Sustainable Perspective

This study explores the application of pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) yarns for traditional Meitei textiles, focusing on Rani Phi and Muga Phanek garments. PALF was used to replace conventional materials, aiming to enhance sustainability and preserve cultural heritage. Fabric samples were produced in manageable sizes—for Rani Phi and Muga Phanek. Rani Phi featured a union plain weave with extra weft rayon yarns (242D), traditional motifs, and a color scheme of undyed white warp (silk-50's with Z twist) and creamy weft (PALF yarn-30's with Z twist) with red ornamentation. The fabric demonstrated a GSM of 56 g/m², a thickness of 0.24 mm, and sufficient tensile strength. Muga Phanek, utilizing a plain weave with extra weft polyester yarns, exhibited an orange warp (Polyester yarn-18's with Z twist), natural weft (PALF yarn- 8's with Z twist), and red motifs, achieving a GSM of 184.4 g/m², a thickness of 0.57 mm, and higher tensile strength than Rani Phi. Consumer feedback from 74 Meitei weavers showed strong acceptance of PALF textiles, appreciating their silk-like appearance, natural color, and cultural motifs, with high commercial potential indicated. The findings validate PALF as a viable, sustainable alternative for traditional Meitei textiles, preserving authenticity while enhancing production and market feasibility.