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The "VIRAASAT" exhibition, a two-week-long celebration of India's handloom heritage, has begun at Handloom Haat in Janpath, New Delhi. Organised by the National Handloom Development Corporation Ltd (NHDC) under the Ministry of Textiles, the exhibition coincides with the 10th National Handloom Day, which will be observed on August 7. The event will run until August 16, 2024.
"VIRAASAT" serves as a tribute to India's vibrant handloom tradition and offers a platform for handloom weavers and artisans to connect directly with consumers. The exhibition features a variety of handloom products from exotic locations across the country, available for both display and purchase.
The event will be open daily from 11 AM to 8 PM, offering visitors a chance to explore 75 stalls showcasing the finest handloom creations. Highlights include live loom demonstrations, workshops on natural dyes and design, and performances of traditional folk dances. Additionally, regional cuisines will be available, providing a taste of India's culinary diversity.
In his recent "Mann ki Baat" radio address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the work of handloom artisans and encouraged the public to support local products by sharing photos with the hashtag #MyProductMyPride.
The exhibition also commemorates the Swadeshi Movement, launched on August 7, 1905, which promoted indigenous industries and particularly supported handloom weavers. The first National Handloom Day was celebrated on August 7, 2015, by Prime Minister Modi in Chennai. Since then, the day has been dedicated to honouring the handloom weaving community and recognizing its significant contribution to India's socio-economic development.
India's handloom sector, employing 3.5 million people, is a cornerstone of the country's cultural heritage. The exhibition showcases unique products like Banarasi, Jamdani, Ikkat, Tussar Silk, and many others, drawing global attention for their exclusive weaves and traditional motifs.
