Indian Heritage in the French Creole-Speaking Caribbean: A Reference to the Madras Material
Hélène Zamor
Abstract
Madras appeared in both Guadeloupe and Martinique during colonization. This southern Indian material has
not only been used for the national costume but also for domestic purposes and decoration. It is common to see
tablecloths and bags made of madras. A house may be decorated with Madras curtains, lamps or dolls. Madras
as a symbol for Creole identity has spread to the commercial sectors. Madras colours have been reproduced in
advertisements, websites as well as on locally made products such as yogurts or rum.
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