“My name is Siva Kumar Modha, and I belong to Hindupur town in Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh. In the year 2000, I completed my Bachelor’s degree, ready to embark on a path in the software industry as per my parents’ wishes. I had even cracked the ICET exam, all set to join the MCA course within a few months. However, destiny had a different plan in store for me.
It was during this time that I accompanied my father on a visit to the weaving village of Modha. Little did I know, this visit would alter the course of my life. While my father engaged in conversation with the locals, I found myself drawn to the rhythmic sounds emanating from the looms. Inside one of the houses, I witnessed firsthand the labor-intensive process of weaving, facilitated by the punch-card based Jacquard mechanism.
The Jacquard machine, invented over two centuries ago by Sir Joseph Jacquard, fascinated me. However, I couldn’t ignore the inherent challenges and inefficiencies plaguing the traditional weaving process. Each intricate pattern required thousands of manual punch cards, and the lifespan of these cards was short-lived, lasting only a few years. Moreover, the manual labor involved was exhaustive, with minimal returns for the weavers.
Driven by a desire to reduce the hardships faced by the weaving community and streamline the design process, I embarked on a journey of innovation. Despite facing resistance from my family, I remained undeterred in my goal.
Tragically, my father passed away in 2004, possibly due to the stress and concern stemming from our disagreements. His demise was a profound loss, but it only fueled my determination to pursue my vision. In 2006, I made the difficult decision to leave my hometown and relocate to Hyderabad, where I could fully immerse myself in my pursuit of innovation and technology in the handloom weaving process.
Over the next 15 years, I dedicated myself wholeheartedly to research and development in the process of handloom weaving. I delved into understanding the intricacies of weaving communities and the mechanical properties of the Jacquard machine. My goal was clear: to develop a technology that would revolutionize the weaving industry.
With the unwavering support of my wife, who I met 14 years ago, I persevered through the challenges and setbacks. Her belief in me never wavered, serving as a constant source of strength and encouragement.Amidst my lowest moments, I had the privilege of connecting with remarkable individuals who became my mentors. Meeting Padma Shri awardee Mr. Chintakindi Mallesham, the mastermind behind the Asu Machine, was a turning point. Through him, I was introduced to Brigadier Ganesham Garu, the founder of Palle Srujana, an organization supporting rural innovations. Under Brigadier Ganesham’s guidance, I was able to patent my invention and lay the groundwork for its future development.
After years of tireless effort and innovation, I finally achieved my goal: the creation of the Modha Device, an electronic Jacquard machine that would revolutionize weaving. Unlike its manual predecessor, the Modha Device operated using image files stored on a simple pen drive, drastically reducing the time and effort required to weave intricate patterns.My journey has been challenging, marked by obstacles and sacrifices, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. Looking ahead, I’m hopeful. I see a future where the Modha Device empowers weavers, preserves traditional craftsmanship, and brings brighter days for generations to come.”
– Siva Kumar Modha, Innovator