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National Handloom Day: Celebrate the rich legacy of India with these handwoven saris

National Handloom Day is a poignant reminder of the historic call to encourage indigenous products during the Swadeshi movement that began on this date in 1905 in Calcutta, led by Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal and Lala Lajpat Rai.

handloomThe day is celebrated to recognise India's rich handloom legacy and the efforts of the community of weavers engaged in the sector. (Source: Freepik)
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Every year, National Handloom Day is observed across India on August 7. The day is celebrated to recognise India’s rich handloom legacy and the efforts of the community of weavers engaged in the sector.

It is also a poignant reminder of the historic call to encourage indigenous products during the Swadeshi movement that began on this date in 1905 in Calcutta, led by Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal and Lala Lajpat Rai.

However, the first observance of National Handloom Day was in 2015 which was inaugurated by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This year, the PM will participate in the celebration at 12 noon at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan in Delhi. “This is an occasion to reiterate our commitment towards popularising local textiles and handlooms in the spirit of being ‘Vocal For Local’,” the PM wrote in a tweet.


So, on this day to preserve the rich heritage of the country and promote the craftsmen and weavers involved in the craft, what better way than to take a look at some of the handloom saris across India? The beauty of handloom saris lies in the fact that every state has its own forte, fabric, patterns, and techniques. So, we bring to you different types of handloom saris from various states.

Tamil Nadu’s Kanjeevaram sari

Named after the small town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, Kanjeevaram saris are made with one of the finest and most durable silks. The bright colour of these saris stands out, making them a staple among South Indian women. Additionally, the quality of zari used in weaving the saris is superior, generally woven in gold and silver.

Maharashtra’s Paithini sari

Considered one of the best handwoven silk saris in India, the Paithini sari is named after the Paithan town in Aurangabad. Famous for its slanting square border design, the pallu of the sari is inspired by flora and fauna such as trees, parrots, and peacocks.

Varanasi’s Banarasi silk sari

The first observance of National Handloom Day was in 2015 which was inaugurated by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (Source: Freepik)

The list would be incomplete without Banarasi silk sari. Recognised as one of the finest silks in India, their gold and silver brocade or zari and opulent embroidery make it a staple in every bride’s trousseau in India.

Madhya Pradesh’s Chanderi sari

Belonging to Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh, this traditional sari is produced using pure silk, cotton and zari. It has a seamless blend of lustre, quality and wonderful prints. The most popular Chanderi patterns include traditional coins, peacocks, geometrics and floral motifs.

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Gujarat’s Bandhini Sari

You would think that the tie-dye print is only for Western wear, but you’re wrong. The Bandhini sari is made using the tie-dye technique that involved plucking the cloth with the fingernails into many tiny bindings to form an abstract design. Derived from the word ‘Bandhan’ which means ties, the Bandhini sari is also popular in some regions of Rajasthan and Punjab. However, the weavers of the Khatri community of Gujarat remain the pioneers of the craft.

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