An exclusive handloom exhibition celebrating India’s traditional weaving heritage and the contribution of women artisans was inaugurated at Handloom Haat in Janpath as part of International Women’s Day celebrations. The exhibition titled Virasat Shakti has been organised by the National Handloom Development Corporation with support from the Ministry of Textiles to promote the country’s rich handloom traditions and strengthen market opportunities for artisans.
The exhibition was inaugurated by M Beena in the presence of Rajiv Ashok and officials of the Ministry of Textiles and the National Handloom Development Corporation. The event highlighted the role of women weavers in preserving India’s handloom heritage and contributing to the growth of the traditional crafts sector.
Virasat Shakti aims to provide a dedicated market platform for skilled weavers and artisans from across India, enabling them to directly showcase and sell their products to the public. Officials said the initiative reflects the government’s continuing efforts to strengthen the handloom sector while supporting the livelihoods of artisans, particularly women who form a significant part of the workforce in traditional weaving.
During the inaugural programme, several women handloom weavers from different states were honoured for their craftsmanship, dedication and contribution to sustaining India’s traditional textile heritage. The recognition acknowledged their role in preserving centuries old weaving techniques and passing on these skills to future generations.
The exhibition is being held from March 7 to March 14, 2026 at Handloom Haat in Janpath, New Delhi. The event remains open to visitors daily from 11 in the morning to 8 in the evening, offering the public an opportunity to explore a wide range of authentic handloom textiles and handicraft products.
A total of 60 weavers and artisans from various states are participating in this year’s exhibition. The event features a diverse collection of handloom fabrics, traditional garments and handcrafted products representing different weaving traditions and regional styles from across the country.
Officials said the exhibition highlights the cultural richness and creativity of India’s traditional crafts sector while also promoting sustainable livelihoods for artisan communities. By providing direct access to consumers, the expo helps artisans receive fair value for their products and strengthens their economic stability.
The exhibition also serves as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of preserving India’s handloom heritage. Through such initiatives, the government aims to encourage public appreciation for handcrafted textiles and support the continued growth of the handloom industry.
The event is expected to attract visitors interested in traditional textiles, heritage crafts and sustainable handmade products, reinforcing the significance of India’s handloom sector in the country’s cultural and economic landscape.
