The handloom-weaving community of India is a symbol of our country’s rich and varied cultural heritage. National Handloom Day is observed every year on August 7 as an occasion to celebrate indigenous industries and handloom weaving, in particular. The day, first celebrated in 2015 by the Government of India, commemorates the launch of the Swadeshi Movement.
This day is a reminder of the remarkable hard work and creativity of India’s handloom-weaving community. On this occasion, the Government of India celebrates and acknowledges the vital role this sector plays in our socio-economic development.
The aim is to protect and preserve our rich handloom heritage while instilling pride in the exquisite craftsmanship that defines it.
National Handloom Day 2024: History
The first National Handloom Day was celebrated in 2015, with an event in Chennai to mark the launch of Swadeshi Movement on August 7, 1905.
The Swadeshi Movement sought to oppose British rule and encourage the ideas of self-help and self-reliance in rural India. The movement aimed to boycott foreign goods and rely on products made in India.
Mahatma Gandhi started the movement by using ‘khadi’. He used this hand-spun fabric and urged every Indian to spin their yarn and proudly wear Khadi.
As a result of the initiative, almost every home began making khadi.
National Handloom Day 2024: Significance
- This day holds great significance in creating awareness about the rich history of Indian handloom as synthetic fabrics have taken over the modern textile industry.
- The handloom industry is a representation of the nation’s illustrious cultural legacy, and this occasion celebrates the rich fabrics and colourful weaves made by weavers.
- It’s important to highlight that the handloom sector plays a crucial role in women’s empowerment, as over 70% of handloom weavers and allied workers are women.
National Handloom Day 2024: Inspiring Quotes
- “I believe that where there is pure and active love for the poor, there is God also. I see God in every thread that I draw on the spinning wheel.”- Mahatma Gandhi
- “With her tiny hands knowing these colours are something epic, she coerces the flag with khaadi (handloom), and she waves lofty for all.” -Tazeen Sadiya
- “In the tapestry of life, we are all connected. Each one of us is a gift to those around us, helping each other be who we are, weaving a perfect picture together.” – Anita Moorjani
- “Think of all your experiences as a huge tapestry that can be laid out in whatever pattern you wish. Each day you add a new thread to the weaving. Do you craft a curtain to hide behind, or do you fashion a magic carpet that will take you to unequalled heights?” – Tony Robbins
- “We sleep, but the loom of life never stops, and the pattern which was weaving when the sun went down is weaving when it comes up in the morning.” – Henry Ward Beecher
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