In July 2015, the Union Government declared August 7th as National Handloom Day to raise awareness about the significance of the handloom industry in the nation’s socioeconomic development. This date commemorates the Swadeshi Movement, initiated on August 7, 1905, at Calcutta Town Hall in response to the British Government’s partition of Bengal. The movement aimed to revive indigenous goods and manufacturing techniques.
The celebration of National Handloom Day was inaugurated by Ms. Rachna Shah, Secretary of Textiles, Government of India, and Ms. Amrit Raj, Development Commissioner of Handicrafts, Ministry of Textiles.
Importance of the Handloom Industry
The handloom industry is a major source of income and a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage. With over 70% of handloom weavers and workers being female, this industry is crucial for the empowerment of women. National Handloom Day, first observed on August 7, 2015, honors the handloom weaving community and highlights its contribution to the nation’s socioeconomic progress. The government remains committed to preserving the handloom legacy and providing better opportunities for handloom workers and weavers.
“Know Your Weaves” Campaign
As part of National Handloom Day, the “Know Your Weaves” campaign will run from 1st to 14th August 2024 at the National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy. This campaign aims to salute the craftsmanship and hard work of our weaver and artisan community, showcasing high-quality handloom and handicraft products. The campaign seeks to invite school students from Kendriya Vidyalaya, government schools, private schools in Delhi, and other organizations to introduce them to traditional Indian handlooms and the handloom-making process.
Schedule of the Programme
I. Interactive Tour of the Textiles Gallery
- Introduction: Overview of textiles, types of textiles.
- Pre-Loom: Preparation of yarns from fibers, dyeing of yarns, Ikat textiles, examples of Ikat textiles from different states.
- On-Loom Section: Preparation of loom, textiles brocades from Varanasi, demonstration of brocade weaving, examples of different brocades from various states, loin loom woven textiles of silk from the north-east, identifying motifs, colors, patterns, and themes of different textiles.
- Post-Loom: Block printing & Rogan printing, tie and dye, appliqué, embroideries from different states.
II. Live Demonstration by Master Craftspersons
III. Activity Corner
- Hands-on Experience Block Print: Visitors can try their hand at block printing.
- Weave Your Imagination: Engage in weaving activities.
- Photo Booth with Traditional Dresses: Take photos in traditional attire.
- Post Card Activity: Create and send postcards.
- Experience Tree Experience & Reviews: Share experiences and reviews.
Folk Music & Dance
Call to Action
The Ministry of Textiles is implementing numerous schemes to support and develop the weaver and artisan community, recognizing the need to support these critical sectors of the economy. “If Artisans Smile…The Nation Shines.” Let’s pledge together for the resurgence of the Indian handloom and handicrafts industry, supporting our weaver artisans by buying Indian handloom and promoting India.
Join us at the National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy to celebrate National Handloom Day and participate in the “Know Your Weaves” campaign, fostering appreciation and support for our rich handloom heritage.
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