tant

Tant, also spelled taant, is a Bengali term for handwoven cotton fabric produced on traditional looms. In Bengal, it broadly refers to light, breathable cotton textiles used to make sarees, garments, and everyday cloth. Tant fabrics are valued for their cool drape and simple, durable weave, making them popular in hot climates and everyday wear.

Etymology and usage: The word taant/tant comes from the Bengali language and designates woven cloth. In English-language descriptions, taant or tant is used to describe the class of Bengal cotton textiles produced by traditional handloom methods. The term is closely associated with regional textile identity in both present‑day Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal.

Production and characteristics: Tant is typically a plain-weave cotton fabric produced on traditional handlooms. It is characterized by a soft, airy texture and a light hand, often resulting in comfortable summer garments. Weaving may yield solid colors, stripes, or simple geometric motifs, with borders or small patterns added by the weaver. The fabrics are commonly used for sarees, but also for dress materials, home textiles, and other apparel.

Geography, history, and modern status: Historically, tant was a principal Bengal textile, produced in centers such as Dhaka and various districts in eastern and western Bengal. The craft declined with the rise of machine-made textiles in the 20th century but has seen revival through handloom cooperatives, artisan associations, and cultural programs that promote traditional weaving. Today tant remains a symbol of Bengali textile heritage and continues to be produced for local markets and exports.

See also: Handloom weaving, Muslin, Cotton fabric.