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National Handloom Day, celebrated annually on August 7 in India, honors the vital role of handloom weavers in shaping the nation’s economy and culture. This day highlights the rich heritage of India's handloom sector, a tradition that has been handed down through generations, featuring intricate designs and traditional patterns.
National Handloom Day, celebrated annually on August 7 in India, honors the vital role of handloom weavers in shaping the nation’s economy and culture. This day highlights the rich heritage of India’s handloom sector, a tradition that has been handed down through generations, featuring intricate designs and traditional patterns. It emphasizes the importance of preserving this cultural legacy while providing weavers and artisans with opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. The significance of National Handloom Day is rooted in the Swadeshi Movement of 1905, which aimed to promote Indian-made products over British goods. Handloom textiles were a central focus of this movement, symbolizing self-reliance and national pride. The first National Handloom Day was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Chennai in 2015, marking the beginning of an annual celebration of this heritage.
India’s handloom industry, the second largest employer in the country after agriculture, employs approximately 35 lakh people directly or indirectly. The industry is renowned for its diverse range of weaving styles and regional specialties, reflecting traditional values and craftsmanship. Popular handloom textiles include Banarasi, Jamdani, Baluchari, Madhubani, Kosa, Ikkat, Patola, Tussar Silk, Maheshwari, Moirang Phee, Phulkari, Laheriya, Khandua, and Tangaliya. Each of these textiles is distinguished by unique weaves, designs, and traditional motifs, making them highly sought after by customers worldwide. In addition to preserving traditional techniques, the handloom sector has adapted to contemporary trends, merging age-old practices with modern aesthetics. The focus on using natural fibers and sustainable methods ensures that India’s handloom heritage remains relevant in today’s fashion landscape. National Handloom Day serves to raise awareness about the importance of this industry, celebrate its contributions to the nation’s socioeconomic growth, and reaffirm India’s commitment to protecting and promoting its handloom heritage.
