The “VIRAASAT” exhibition, celebrating the 10th National Handloom Day, commenced at Handloom Haat in Janpath, New Delhi, on Saturday, August 3, 2024. Organized by the National Handloom Development Corporation Ltd (NHDC) under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, this handloom expo will run until August 16, 2024.
“VIRAASAT” is part of a series of events honoring National Handloom Day, which falls on August 7th each year. This year’s 10th celebration focuses on India’s rich handloom and handicraft traditions, aiming to connect artisans and weavers with broader markets.
The exhibition is open to the public from 11 AM to 8 PM, showcasing handloom products from various exotic locations across India. Attendees can explore and purchase a wide range of unique items.
Throughout the event, several activities will be held at Handloom Haat, including:
75 stalls where handloom weavers and artisans will sell their products directly
Curated displays featuring exquisite Indian handlooms
Workshops on natural dyes, kasturi cotton, design, and exports
Live loom demonstrations
Folk dances from different regions of India
Regional culinary delights
In his Mann ki Baat address (112th episode), Hon’ble Prime Minister lauded the widespread work of handloom artisans and encouraged people to share photos of local products on social media with the hashtag #MyProductMyPride.
The Swadeshi Movement, launched on August 7, 1905, promoted indigenous industries, especially handloom weaving. In 2015, the Indian government declared August 7th as National Handloom Day to honor the weaving community’s contributions to the nation’s socio-economic development. The first National Handloom Day was celebrated in Chennai by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This day underscores the government’s commitment to preserving handloom heritage, empowering weavers and workers, and ensuring sustainable development in the sector. The handloom industry, which employs around 3.5 million people, is a vital part of India’s cultural heritage and economy, second only to agriculture.
The handloom sector boasts unique products such as Banarasi, Jamdani, Baluchari, Madhubani, Kosa, Ikkat, Patola, Tussar Silk, Maheshwari, Moirang Phee, Phulkari, Laheriya, Khandua, and Tangaliya, which attract customers worldwide with their exclusive weaves, designs, and traditional motifs.
To support this sector, the Government of India has launched various schemes promoting high-quality, eco-friendly handloom products. These initiatives help brand and distinguish handcrafted items, ensuring buyers receive genuine products. Exhibitors at the “VIRAASAT” exhibition are encouraged to display their finest products, aiming to boost the market and improve the earnings of the handloom communities.
