The Ministry of Textiles will organise a national function at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre today to celebrate 12th National Handloom Day. President Droupadi Mumru will join the event as the chief guest, with Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh and Minister of State Pabitra Margherita attending the programme.

The Textiles Ministry said that the function aims to celebrate India’s rich handloom heritage and recognise the contribution of the handloom weaving community to the nation’s cultural and economic development. Akashvani correspondent reports that a major highlight of the celebrations will be the presentation of the Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and the National Handloom Awards for the year 2025.

A total of 22 awards, comprising three Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and nineteen National Handloom Awards, will be conferred upon the handloom weavers for their craftsmanship, innovation and contribution to the preservation of India’s handloom traditions. Four commemorative postage stamps celebrating the country’s rich and diverse handloom weaving traditions will be released on the occasion. Two publications-Earth. Root. Thread – Aal Dyed Handloom Textiles of Central India and the Handloom Awards Book 2025 will also be unveiled during the function.

On the sidelines, an exhibition will be organised showcasing award-winning handloom products. Visitors will also have an opportunity to witness live demonstrations of traditional Kani weaving and Wall Hanging weaving, providing a glimpse into the diversity and craftsmanship of India’s handloom traditions.

National Handloom Day is observed every year on August 7, to commemorate the Swadeshi Movement launched on the same day in 1905. According to the Ministry of Textiles, the day has served as an occasion to celebrate the artistry, skill and dedication of the Country’s handloom weavers since its inception in the year 2015.