The “VIRAASAT” exhibition, dedicated to the 10th National Handloom Day, began at Handloom Haat in Janpath on Saturday, 3rd August 2024. Organized by the National Handloom Development Corporation Ltd (NHDC) under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, the event will run until 16th August 2024.
Purpose and Focus
“VIRAASAT,” the “Exclusive Handloom Expo,” continues the tradition of celebrating National Handloom Day, which falls on 7th August each year. The exhibition highlights the rich tradition of handloom and handicrafts while providing market connectivity for weavers and artisans.
Exhibition Details
- Dates: 3rd August 2024 – 16th August 2024
- Timings: 11 am to 8 pm
- Location: Handloom Haat, Janpath
- Features: Display and sale of handloom products from various exotic locations in India.
Activities During the Event
- Stalls: 75 stalls featuring handloom weavers and artisans
- Displays: Curated theme display of exquisite Indian handlooms
- Workshops: Sessions on natural dyes, kasturi cotton, design, and exports
- Live Demonstrations: Loom demonstrations
- Cultural Activities: Folk dances and regional cuisines
Prime Minister’s Support
The Hon’ble Prime Minister praised the handloom sector during the 112th episode of Mann Ki Baat, highlighting the sector’s success and urging people to share photos of local products on social media with the hashtag ‘#MyProductMyPride’.
Historical Context
The Swadeshi Movement, launched on 7th August 1905, bolstered indigenous industries, particularly handloom weaving. In 2015, the Government of India established National Handloom Day on this date. The first National Handloom Day was celebrated on 7th August 2015 in Chennai by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, honoring the handloom weaving community and emphasizing its socio-economic impact.
Significance of the Handloom Sector
The handloom sector, symbolizing India’s cultural heritage, employs approximately 35 lakh people, second only to agriculture. It boasts a variety of products such as Banarasi, Jamdani, Baluchari, Madhubani, Kosa, Ikkat, Patola, Tussar Silk, Maheshwari, Moirang Phee, Phulkari, Laheriya, Khandua, and Tangaliya. These products attract global customers with their unique weaves and designs.
Government Initiatives
The Government of India has launched various schemes to brand high-quality, eco-friendly handloom products, ensuring authenticity and uniqueness. Exhibitors at the VIRAASAT exhibition are encouraged to showcase their products to enhance market reach and improve the earnings of the handloom community.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the primary focus of the “VIRAASAT” exhibition?
- A) Modern textiles
- B) Handloom and handicrafts
- C) Machine-made fabrics
- D) International fashion trends
- When does the VIRAASAT exhibition conclude?
- A) 10th August 2024
- B) 15th August 2024
- C) 16th August 2024
- D) 20th August 2024
- Which historical event is commemorated on National Handloom Day?
- A) Indian Independence Day
- B) Swadeshi Movement
- C) Republic Day
- D) Gandhi Jayanti
- Who inaugurated the first National Handloom Day?
- A) President of India
- B) Minister of Textiles
- C) Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi
- D) Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu
- What unique feature is highlighted by the Government of India’s schemes for handloom products?
- A) Machine-made quality
- B) Eco-friendliness and authenticity
- C) Low-cost production
- D) Mass production