The lamba, a traditional Malagasy fabric, is indisputably Madagascar’s artisanal product par excellence. Much more than a simple garment, it is a permanent, even eternal, companion.
It represents Madagascar’s cultural identity and is worn with pride by the Malagasy people. Whether it’s a square of fabric draped over a woman’s shoulder, printed cotton wrapped around her hips, or a shroud lovingly crafted to welcome ancestors into their eternal sleep, the lamba is both versatile and symbolic.
This textile, often adorned with significant patterns and colors, is used in various ceremonies and rites, expressing a sense of belonging to a community and the continuity of ancestral traditions.
The lamba is more than just a piece of fabric; it plays a central role in everyday life and important events. It is used as an ornament at weddings, funerals, and religious ceremonies, and also serves as a blanket, baby carrier, or gift to honor a guest.
The lamba comes in several varieties. The simple white lamba is used to cover the shoulders of women in the highlands. The more refined lamba is woven entirely by hand from wild silk. Wider and edged with colorful grooves, this lamba can also be used as a tablecloth, typically sold with a set of matching napkins. The most sought-after is the lamba arindramo, a specialty of the Ambalavao region.
The lambamena, or shroud, is the most durable product, designed to withstand the atmosphere of the tomb. However, some travelers and locals sometimes use the lambamena for the pleasure of the living, as wall hangings or tapestries. Arivonimamo is one of the main towns specializing in its manufacture.
The lamba worn by men at the hips and by women up to the chest is simply a printed cotton loincloth.
Finally, all these varieties of lamba are sold by local craftsmen who run stores in the main towns. You can ask your companion (cab driver, guide, etc.) to take you to a nearby store; there are hundreds within easy reach.
