India will celebrate the 11th National Handloom Day on August 7, 2025, at the iconic Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This day holds deep cultural and economic significance. It is a tribute to India’s rich handloom heritage and the skilled artisans who keep it alive.
Honouring India’s Weaving Legacy
Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, will grace the event as the Chief Guest. Joining her will be Union Minister of Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh and Minister of State for External Affairs & Textiles Shri Pabitra Margherita.
Also in attendance will be Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary (Textiles), and Dr. M. Beena, Development Commissioner (Handlooms).
About 650 weavers from all over India are expected to participate. Foreign buyers, exporters, designers, and senior government officials will also attend the celebration.
This year, the President will confer 5 Sant Kabir Awards and 19 National Handloom Awards to outstanding weavers. These awards recognize extraordinary skill, innovation, and dedication in the handloom sector.
A commemorative Award Catalogue and a beautifully curated coffee table book will also be released by the President.
Special Activities on August 7
The main function will be more than just ceremonial. It will feature:
- Recognition of best-performing Weavers’ Service Centres
- Distribution of beneficiary certificates under key handloom schemes
- A grand fashion show by renowned designers showcasing regional weaves
Week-Long Celebration of Handloom Heritage
From August 1 to 8, 2025, several events across Delhi will mark the week-long celebration of handloom excellence. Highlights include:
- Live loom demonstrations
- “Haat on Wheels” – a mobile handloom retail outlet
- Exclusive sari exhibition and sale at Handloom Haat, Janpath
- Craft Museum exhibit on regenerative materials
- Loom Hackathon at IIT Delhi
- International Handwoven Expo with buyers, exporters, and artisans
- Awards for best exporters in the handloom sector
Historical Context: A Swadeshi Tribute
National Handloom Day commemorates the launch of the Swadeshi Movement on August 7, 1905, in Kolkata. It was a historic call for self-reliance and revival of indigenous industries. In 2015, the Government of India declared August 7 as National Handloom Day to honour that spirit.
This day now serves as a platform to promote local artisans and encourage vocal for local initiatives.
Celebrations Across India
Events will take place across Weavers’ Service Centres, Indian Institutes of Handloom Technology, NIFT campuses, and various state handloom departments.
Social media will also play a major role with campaigns like:
- #HandloomPledge
- #SelfieWithHandloom
- Quiz contests and influencer outreach on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and FM radio
Reviving a Culture of Craftsmanship
The celebration of National Handloom Day 2025 is not just about tradition. It’s about the future. It brings together innovation, sustainability, and community pride.
By recognizing weavers and promoting indigenous textiles, India sends a strong message—our roots are our strength.
Conclusion
The 11th National Handloom Day is a celebration of tradition, pride, and resilience. It honours the tireless efforts of weavers who weave not just fabric, but the very essence of India’s culture.
Let’s take a pledge to support handloom products and ensure that these timeless weaves continue to flourish for generations to come.