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Northeast India's Handlooms, Handicrafts Shine at President's Republic Day Banquet

For the first time, the cultural and agricultural wealth of all eight Northeastern states was collectively showcased at the President's 'At Home' reception in Rashtrapati Bhavan. The North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation curated installations featuring iconic items like the Assamese Gamosa, Naga kitchenware, and Manipur's Longpi pottery. The event was attended by President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and European leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa. This presentation highlighted the region's craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and unique agro-horticultural products to a national and global audience.

Key Points: Northeast Crafts Showcased at President's 'At Home' Reception

  • First collective showcase of all 8 NE states
  • Display curated by NEHHDC
  • Featured GI-tagged produce like Kaji Nemu
  • Cultural performances from each state
  • Attended by top Indian and EU leaders
2 min read

Northeast India's handlooms, handicrafts take centre stage at President's 'At Home' reception

President Murmu and PM Modi host a special display of Northeast India's handlooms, handicrafts, and GI-tagged produce at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

"This historic presentation... marks a major moment for Northeast India. - Ministry of Development of North-East Region"

New Delhi, January 27

Northeast India's rich handloom, handicraft and agro-horticultural traditions were showcased for the first time at the 'At Home' banquet hosted by the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

According to a release issued by the Ministry of Development of North-East Region, the display was curated by the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), marking the first collective representation of all eight Northeastern states at the event.

President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the gathering along with Union Ministers, diplomats and international dignitaries. The presence of Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, who was the Chief Guest at the 2025 Republic Day parade, and Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, added to the occasion's significance.

The Ministry said that NEHHDC transformed the venue with installations highlighting the cultural identity of the Northeast. Assamese symbols such as the Brass Xorai and Gamosa, Naga kitchen elements like the Singtha plate and dry corn husks, and cane sculptures of the One-Horned Rhinoceros and Elephant presented the region's diversity.

Traditional fishing tools, Manipur's Longpi Black Pottery, and Kauna grass baskets reflected indigenous craftsmanship and sustainable practices. A central attraction was the 'Boat Fruit Basket' showcasing GI-tagged produce, including Kaji Nemu, Khasi Mandarin, Queen Pineapple and Naga King Chilli. A cane structure creatively depicted the Indian Tricolour using organic materials.

The dining arrangements featured Octagonal Table Mats symbolising the unity of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim. Each mat displayed distinct weaving motifs, representing the textile heritage of the eight states.

Traditional cultural performances from all Northeastern states added vibrancy to the event and offered guests a glimpse into the region's living traditions. This historic presentation at Rashtrapati Bhavan marks a major moment for Northeast India. Through this initiative, NEHHDC highlighted the region's cultural identity, craftsmanship and agro-horticultural wealth before a national and global audience.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally! The rich culture of our Northeastern brothers and sisters getting the recognition it deserves at the highest level. The octagonal table mats symbolising the eight states is a beautiful touch. Hope this leads to more tourism and economic opportunities for the region.
A
Aman W
While the showcase is excellent, I hope it translates to tangible benefits for the actual artisans. Often, the middlemen profit the most. The government must ensure direct market linkages and fair trade practices follow such events.
S
Sarah B
The creativity is astounding! A cane structure depicting the Tricolour with organic materials and a boat fruit basket? What a brilliant way to present the region's identity and produce. The cultural performances must have been mesmerising.
K
Karthik V
Naga King Chilli and Kaji Nemu on display for international guests! This is fantastic for promoting our GI-tagged products. Our biodiversity is our strength. Jai Hind!
M
Meera T
As someone from Assam, seeing the Xorai and Gamosa at the President's house brings tears of joy. It's not just decor; it's our culture, our respect, our identity. Thank you for this inclusive gesture. It means a lot.

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