"VIRAASAT" exhibition, a fortnight-long celebration dedicated to the 10th National Handloom Day, commenced at Handloom Haat in Janpath on Saturday, 3rd August 2024. Organized by the National Handloom Development Corporation Ltd (NHDC) under the aegis of the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, this event will run until 16th August 2024.
"VIRAASAT," the "Exclusive Handloom Expo," is a continuation of the previous year's National Handloom Day celebrations. This year, the 10th National Handloom Day will be marked on 7th August. The event aims to highlight the rich tradition of handloom and handicrafts while also providing a market connection for handloom weavers and artisans.
The exhibition, open to the public from 11 am to 8 pm, showcases handloom products from some of India's most exotic locations. Throughout the event, visitors can explore 75 stalls featuring handloom weavers and artisans who are directly retailing their products. Highlights include curated theme displays of exquisite Indian handlooms, workshops on natural dyes, Kasturi cotton, design and exports, live loom demonstrations, folk dances, and regional cuisines.
During the 112th episode of "Mann ki Baat," Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the widespread work of handloom artisans and the significant impact of handloom products. He encouraged people to upload photos with local products on social media using the hashtag #MyProductMyPride.
The Swadeshi Movement, launched on 7th August 1905, played a crucial role in promoting indigenous industries, particularly handloom weaving. In 2015, the Government of India decided to commemorate 7th August each year as National Handloom Day. The first National Handloom Day was celebrated on 7th August 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Chennai. This day honors the handloom weaving community and highlights the sector's contribution to India's socio-economic development. It reaffirms the commitment to protect handloom heritage and empower weavers and workers with greater opportunities.
The handloom sector symbolizes India's rich cultural heritage, employing 3.5 million people directly or indirectly, second only to agriculture. Each region's unique handloom varieties, such as Banarasi, Jamdani, Baluchari, Madhubani, Kosa, Ikkat, Patola, Tussar Silk, Maheshwari, Moirang Phee, Phulkari, Laheriya, Khandua, and Tangaliya, attract global customers with their exclusive weaves, designs, and traditional motifs.
Government of India has launched various schemes to brand high-quality handloom products with zero defects and zero environmental impact. These initiatives aim to provide a distinct identity to handcrafted products and guarantee their authenticity. Exhibitors at the exhibition are encouraged to display their exquisite products to enhance the market for handloom items and improve the earnings of the handloom community.
This year's "VIRAASAT" exhibition not only celebrates the 10th National Handloom Day but also reaffirms the commitment to the sustainable development of the handloom sector, empowering artisans financially and instilling pride in their craftsmanship.
