What a khata is and what role it plays
The khata is a long, thin, silky scarf known in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition as a greeting and respect-offering cloth. Offered to a guest, it expresses the same kind, attentive gesture as a beautifully wrapped gift in our culture. The 174 x 54 centimetre size is generous enough for you to offer it with dignity even on festive occasions.
The finely woven motifs
Tibetan motifs and characters are woven into the surface of the khata, so this is not printed decoration but ornamentation that has become part of the fabric. The white colour represents purity, sincere intentions and good wishes in tradition. The scarf has a subtle silky sheen and a light, airy touch.
How you can use it in daily life
The khata may be offered to a loved one for a birthday, wedding or major life event. Many people also use it as a decorative element next to an altar, a Buddha statue or a thangka painting. You may place it at the edge of a bookshelf or beside the meditation corner where you often spend time.
The traditional way of offering
By tradition the khata is offered with both hands and a slight bow, and the receiving party accepts it in a similar way. In many places the received khata is briefly raised above the head before being placed around the neck of the guest or teacher. You may freely shape the gesture so that it expresses respect and attention in your own culture.
Care and storage
The fabric requires gentle treatment: hand wash with lukewarm water and a mild soap, without wringing. Unlike printed motifs the woven pattern does not flake off, but strong heat and the washing machine may damage the surface. Store it flat in a clean, dry silk or cotton wrapper whenever possible.