'India's Handloom tradition is living legacy': VP Radhakrishnan salutes weavers on National Handloom Day
New Delhi, Aug 7
Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Friday highlighted India's rich handloom heritage on National Handloom Day, describing the country's weaving tradition as a "living legacy" shaped by generations of craftsmanship, dedication and resilience.
In a post on X, Vice President Radhakrishnan highlighted the enduring legacy of India's handloom tradition and the contribution of artisans in preserving the country's cultural heritage.
He wrote, "India's handloom tradition is a living legacy, woven with artistry, resilience and generations of craftsmanship. On #NationalHandloomDay, we salute the weavers and artisans whose dedication keeps this priceless heritage alive while creating sustainable livelihoods and empowering rural communities. Every handwoven creation reflects the richness of our culture and the spirit of self-reliance. Let us celebrate their invaluable contribution by choosing handloom, supporting local artisans, and strengthening the vision of Vocal For Local and an Atmanirbhar Bharat."
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also greeted the nation on the occasion and underlined the historical significance of the handloom sector, particularly its association with India's freedom movement.
In his post on X, HM Shah said, "Greetings on National Handloom Day. India's handloom sector, which was closely associated with our freedom movement, represents India's rich cultural heritage and diversity. To preserve the craft of handloom weaving and give it a new dimension, Modi Ji introduced National Handloom Day. Moreover, by opening up new opportunities for weavers through global trade agreements and domestic support, the Modi govt is promoting the sector. May this day renew our resolve to support the sector by making its products a part of our daily lives."
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also extended his greetings, describing handloom as a symbol of India's self-reliance, creativity and cultural identity.
In a post on X, he said, "Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to all weavers, artisans, and the people of the state who are the torchbearers of India's rich cultural heritage and wonderful craft traditions, and who are strengthening the resolve from 'Vocal for Local' to 'Local to Global' on National Handloom Day.
Handloom is a living symbol of India's self-reliance, skill, creativity, and cultural identity. Let us, by adopting Swadeshi products, further strengthen the resolve for an Aatmanirbhar Bharat."
National Handloom Day is observed every year on August 7 to commemorate the launch of the Swadeshi Movement in 1905 and to honour the invaluable contribution of India's handloom weavers and artisans. The day also aims to promote the handloom sector, encourage the use of indigenous products, and recognise its role in generating sustainable livelihoods, preserving traditional craftsmanship and strengthening rural economies.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Good words from our VP, but honestly these speeches don't reach the actual weavers. My cousin is a handloom weaver in Andhra Pradesh, and his earnings are barely enough to survive. The government talks about supporting local artisans, but the middlemen still take most of the profit. We need concrete policies, not just slogans on special days. Respect to all the weavers though, their work is truly unmatched. #HandloomDay
I visited India last year and was amazed by the handloom work in Varanasi. The silk weaving is stunning! I bought a couple of handwoven stoles, and every time I wear them, people ask where they're from. It's wonderful to see a country celebrating and preserving its heritage like this. The "Vocal for Local" message really resonates internationally too.
"Living legacy" is the perfect phrase. Every handloom piece tells a story—the patience, the precision, the hours of work. In our fast fashion world, we forget that these artisans are keeping our culture alive. I've started a small initiative with my friends in Bengaluru to promote handloom among young people, and the response has been so encouraging! Let's do our part. 💙
As someone who works in the textile industry internationally, I can confidently say India's handloom sector has no parallel. The skill and craftmanship are genuinely world-class. It's encouraging to see leadership promoting this sector—these traditions deserve global recognition and support. The Swadeshi connection reminds everyone that economic self-reliance was always part of India's growth story.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.