National Handloom Day: Celebrating India's rich legacy, one weave at a time

India celebrates 10th National handloom Day on August 7, 2024. (Image: Canva)

The National Handloom Day is celebrated on August 7 to honour the handloom weavers of India. This day recognises their invaluable contribution to the country’s socio-economic development, emphasising the importance of handloom weaving in India’s cultural and economic fabric. It promotes handloom products and encourages their use to sustain the livelihood of artisans.

(Image: Canva)

To commemorate the 10th National Handloom Day, the government has organised a fortnight-long exhibition called 'VIRAASAT' at the Handloom Haat, New Delhi from August 3 to August 16. Organized by the National Handloom Development Corporation Ltd (NHDC), the event features a diverse array of handloom products from across India, 75 stalls offering direct retail opportunities, workshops on natural dyes and design, live loom demonstrations, and vibrant cultural performances. This initiative aims to honour handloom weavers, promote their crafts and enhance market opportunities for them.

History of National Handloom Day
The National Handloom Day was first celebrated in 2015. The date, August 7, commemorates the Swadeshi Movement of 1905, which aimed to promote indigenous industries and goods, including handloom products, as a form of protest against British colonial rule. The movement was a significant step in India’s struggle for independence and stressed the need for self-reliance, making August 7 a symbolic and fitting day to celebrate the handloom sector.

(Image: Canva)

Why it matters

Economic Impact

The handloom sector is one of the largest unorganised economic activities in India, providing direct employment to more than 43 lakh weavers and allied workers. The National Handloom Day raises awareness about the economic significance of the sector and the need for its sustenance and growth.

Cultural Heritage

Handloom products reflect the rich cultural heritage of India, showcasing diverse traditions, designs, and craftsmanship from various regions. This day serves as a reminder of the country’s cultural wealth and the need to preserve and promote these traditional art forms.

(Image: Canva)

Empowering Artisans

By focusing on handloom products, the National Handloom Day empowers artisans and weavers, offering them with a platform to showcase their work and connect with potential buyers. This recognition helps improve their economic conditions and motivates them to continue their craft.

Sustainable Fashion

 Handloom products are often more sustainable and eco-friendly compared to mass-produced textiles. Promoting handloom encourages consumers to make environmentally conscious choices, supporting sustainable fashion and reducing the carbon footprint of the textile industry.