Embracing Tradition: Celebrating National Handloom Day

Posted On: 2023-08-08 10:44:58

In a world dominated by quick fashion, the craftsmanship and authenticity of handloom fabrics are enchanting. National Handloom Day, observed on August 7th, recognises the rich cultural legacy and artistry of handloom weavers throughout India. It is a day to celebrate the complexities of handwoven fabrics and the efforts of innumerable artists who have kept this ancient practice alive for decades.

In July 2015, the Union Government announced August 7th as National Handloom Day to raise awareness about the relevance of the handloom sector to the country's socioeconomic growth. The date of August 7 was chosen to commemorate the Swadeshi Movement, which was begun on this day in 1905 in Calcutta Town Hall to protest the British Government's division of Bengal. The movement attempted to revive domestic products and methods of production.

The craft of handloom weaving has been passed down from generation to generation, with artisans conserving regional techniques and designs. From the sumptuous Kanchipuram silks of Tamil Nadu to the complex Phulkaris of Punjab, each state in India has its own particular weaving culture. These handlooms are living expressions of our common culture and tradition, not simply cloth.

Handloom appreciation has seen a rebirth in recent years, both in India and globally Handwoven fabrics are being embraced by designers and fashion enthusiasts for their elegance, durability, and one-of-a-kind appeal. The Renaissance of handlooms has sparked renewed interest in ancient weaving techniques, encouraging young craftsmen to explore this time-honoured trade. Here are a few designers who have embarked on handloom creations. 

1. Sabyasachi Mukherjee:  More than a decade ago, Sabyasachi Mukherjee launched his 'Save the Sari' initiative, through which he began assisting weavers from Bengal and Andhra Pradesh by commissioning them with ongoing work. Apart from that, the designer is well-known for his handloom sarees composed of Khadi, cotton, and Banarsi fabrics.

2. Gaurang Shah: Gaurang Shah, a fashion designer and textile revivalist, is recognised for giving old weaves new life. He works with Kanchi-Kalamkari, Khadi-Kanchi, Organza-Kanch, Tussar-Kanchi, and Patan Patola fabrics. He is widely renowned for being the first Indian designer to present Kanjeevarams on a national scale, as well as for revitalising the Jamdani weaving community.

3. Abraham and Thakore: Abraham and Thakore are well-known for their handloom work, but they also experiment with a variety of Indian fabrics such as Mangalgiri, Jamdani, and Banarasi brocades. The black and white Ikat design, on the other hand, is their distinctive style. The pair have played a significant role in popularising this resist dyeing process, from Gujarat's Patan Patola and its double Ikat to Odisha's distinctive Ikat. 
4. Anita Dongre: Anita Dongre is well-known for her Banarasi brocade sarees, in addition to her famed gota-patti lehengas. Dongre collaborates extensively with autonomous groups of craftsmen through NGOs such as the SEWA Trade Facilitation Centre. 

National Handloom Day is a reminder of the heritage and culture we carry with pride. Filaantro along with Child Help Foundation encourages many such artistry to promote more Handloom creations. Along with it, women are also taught basic design creations so that they can be self-skilled and earn for themselves. As we celebrate this day, let us take a moment to honour the skill, artistry and perseverance of handloom weavers. 

AUTHOR: ATHIRA PRADEEP NAIR