Why was Bengal known for muslin textiles during Mughal rule?

During the Mughal period, Bengal—specifically the region around Dhaka—became renowned for its production of exceptionally fine muslin textiles due to the extraordinary skill of local weavers. These textiles, particularly the figured variety known as jamdani, were characterized by intricate, elaborate designs that represented a pinnacle of craftsmanship.1

The region's reputation was bolstered by its ability to produce high-quality, handwoven fabrics from extremely fine, handspun yarns. These textiles were highly valued luxury goods, often ornamented with gold and silver wire or floral patterns of Persian derivation, and were sought after by the wealthy elite.21

Bengal’s ports, such as Hooghly and Chittagong, served as vital hubs in a dense maritime trade network. Through these ports, fine textiles were exported across the Indian Ocean to markets in the Persian Gulf, Southeast Asia, and eventually Europe, cementing Bengal's status as a premier center for textile production during the Mughal dynasty.31