John Keating's memorable lines from "Dead Poets Society"— "Medicine, law, business, and engineering are noble pursuits necessary to sustain life. But poetry, beauty, romance, love—what we stay alive for"—eloquently highlight the stark contrast between capitalism's pragmatic pursuits and the soul-enriching essence of artistic expression. This conflict is significantly pronounced in India, where economic expansion often overshadows cultural preservation, affecting the country's rich tapestry of traditional arts. Among the most poignant examples of this conflict is the struggle of the handloom weavers in Varanasi and Kanchipuram. These artisans, the guardians of an ancient craft, painstakingly produce silk sarees renowned for their intricate designs and vibrant colours. However, they now face the pervasive threat of industrialization, which floods the market with cheaper, machine-made alternatives. This competition undermines their traditional livelihoods a...