A multitude of women took to the streets of London, adorned in traditional Indian weaves representing various regions, in a special event.
London streets experienced a unique saree walkathon on August 6, marking the observance of India’s National Handloom Day on August 7, 2023. The initiative was led by Dipti Jain and organized by the British Women in Sarees group.
More than 700 women participated in the walk, starting from Trafalgar Square and ending at the Gandhi statue in Parliament Square. Many of them showcased diverse traditional weaves from Indian states like Maharashtra, Jammu and Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh.
In addition to London’s festivities, celebrations unfolded in India as well. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the National Handloom Day event at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, emphasizing the “Vocal For Local” initiative. He inaugurated the Repository of Textiles & Crafts created by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).
Member of Parliament Poonam Mahajan proudly shared an image donning the Paithani saree, an ancient Indian handloom technique. She encouraged collective efforts to uphold India’s rich cultural heritage of artisans.
National Handloom Day commemorates the pre-independence Swadeshi Movement’s launch on August 7, 1905. This movement advocated for indigenous industries and specifically supported handloom weavers.
