The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Gandhinagar, celebrated the 10th National Handloom Day with a grand and vibrant event. The celebration was graced by several distinguished guests, including Shri Bhupendrabhai Rajnikant Patel, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, who served as the Chief Guest, and Shri Balvantsinh Chandansinh Rajput, the Hon’ble Minister of Industries, Micro, Small and Medium Industries, Cottage, Khadi and Rural Industries, Civil Aviation, Labour and Employment Department, Government of Gujarat, who was the Guest of Honour.

Distinguished Guests and Attendees: The occasion was further enriched by the presence of Mrs. Miraben Patel, Mayor of Gandhinagar, Mrs. Rita Patel, MLA Gandhinagar, Mr. Praveen Solanki, IAS, Commissioner of Cottage and Rural Industries, and Shri Lalit Narayan Singh Sandu, IAS, Managing Director Gurjari. Officers from Gandhinagar Corporation, Prof. Dr. Sameer Sood, Director of NIFT Gandhinagar, and a large number of enthusiastic students were also in attendance. Their presence highlighted the importance of the event and the collective effort to promote and preserve the handloom industry.

Prof. Dr. Sameer Sood, Director of NIFT Gandhinagar  said the Indian handloom sector stands at a crossroads, where strategic interventions and innovative approaches can significantly enhance its prospects. A key way forward is to embrace design innovation while preserving traditional techniques. Collaborative efforts between designers and weavers can lead to the creation of contemporary products that appeal to modern consumers. This involves training weavers in new design concepts, color palettes, and market trends, ensuring that their craftsmanship meets current fashion and lifestyle demands. By integrating traditional motifs with modern aesthetics, the handloom sector can cater to both domestic and international markets, fostering a renewed interest in handcrafted textiles.

 

NIFT is playing a crucial role in the overall development of the handloom sector . Some of the interventions of NIFT towards the sector are the design development interventions in the sector and development of robust market linkages and digital platforms. Establishing e-commerce portals dedicated to handloom products can significantly expand market reach, allowing weavers to directly connect with consumers globally. Government and private sector initiatives can facilitate this by providing technological support, marketing training, and financial assistance for digital infrastructure. Additionally, creating exclusive handloom hubs and promoting them as sustainable fashion destinations can attract tourists and buyers, further boosting the sector. Implementing these measures will not only enhance the visibility of Indian handloom products but also ensure the economic sustainability of millions of artisans involved in this heritage craft.

Activities Planned for the Occasion:

Handloom Exhibition: An Exquisite Demonstration of Handloom Crafts

The Handloom Exhibition was a comprehensive showcase of the diverse traditions and techniques of Indian handloom crafts. This exhibition highlighted the rich cultural heritage of handloom weaving, featuring an impressive array of hand-woven fabrics, including saris, shawls, dresses, ethnic wear, home decor items, and accessories.

Artisans from various regions demonstrated the intricate weaving processes, providing visitors with a firsthand look at the skill and dedication required to create these exquisite pieces. This live demonstration was a significant attraction, allowing visitors to witness the meticulous craftsmanship and learn about the various stages of weaving. The exhibition aimed to promote and preserve traditional handloom crafts, enabling artisans to reach a wider audience and visitors to appreciate and purchase authentic handloom products directly from the creators.

Thematic Exhibition on Mahatma Gandhi

Under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Sameer Sood, NIFT Gandhinagar presented a thematic exhibition dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi's life and his profound influence on the Khadi movement. The exhibition featured over twenty-five charcoal paintings and sketches, depicting various stages of Khadi production.

The narrative showcased Gandhi's commitment to self-reliance and the Khadi movement, presented through a meditation metaphor that connected visitors with the philosophical and spiritual aspects of Gandhi’s work. This thematic exhibition provided a visual journey through Gandhi's life, emphasizing his efforts to promote Khadi as a symbol of Indian self-sufficiency and resistance against colonial rule. It was a poignant reminder of the historical and cultural significance of handloom and Khadi in India's independence movement.

Fashion Walk on National Handloom Day

One of the most anticipated events was the Fashion Walk, held to showcase the beauty and elegance of handloom fabrics in contemporary fashion. Models paraded in stunning ensembles crafted from hand-woven textiles, highlighting the versatility and aesthetic appeal of handloom fabrics.

The fashion walk featured designer collections, themed segments, and collaborations with artists, all aimed at creating awareness about the adaptability and sustainability of handloom textiles. The event encouraged more people to incorporate these beautiful fabrics into their everyday wardrobes, demonstrating how traditional weaves can be seamlessly integrated into modern fashion. It was a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship, showcasing the potential of handloom textiles in the contemporary fashion industry.

Inauguration of Faculty Area and Handloom Day Pledge

On National Handloom Day, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendrabhai Rajnikant Patel, inaugurated a newly designated Faculty Area for the Accessories Design and Fashion Design Departments. This inauguration marked a significant milestone in celebrating the cultural heritage of handloom weaving and inspiring innovation within the industry.

The event was a vibrant celebration of both traditional and contemporary handloom products. It featured live demonstrations, an exhibition on Mahatma Gandhi, and a fashion walk highlighting traditional Indian handlooms. These activities provided a platform for artisans to connect with a wider audience, fostering appreciation and support for their contributions to India's cultural and economic fabric.

The Handloom Exhibition offered visitors a deep insight into the diverse traditions and techniques of handloom crafts practiced across India and Gujarat. It allowed artisans to demonstrate their skills and dedication, giving visitors an immersive experience of the weaving process. The thematic exhibition on Mahatma Gandhi presented a reflective journey through his life, emphasizing the historical significance of Khadi and handloom in India's independence movement.

The Fashion Walk was a visual treat, showcasing the versatility and elegance of handloom fabrics in contemporary fashion. It highlighted the adaptability of traditional weaves in modern designs, encouraging a broader acceptance and incorporation of handloom textiles in everyday fashion.

The 10th National Handloom Day celebration at NIFT Gandhinagar was a resounding success, highlighting the significance of handloom weaving in India's cultural and economic landscape. The event served as an inspiration for future innovations in the industry, ensuring that the tradition of handloom weaving continues to thrive and evolve in contemporary times. Through these activities, NIFT Gandhinagar reinforced its commitment to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Indian handloom crafts, fostering a deeper appreciation for the artisans and their invaluable contributions to India's cultural fabric.

AP/GP/JD

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