National Handloom Day is observed to commemorate the start of the Swadeshi Andolan on August 7, 1905. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Chennai characterized the first National Handloom Day.
In the Mann Ki Baat segment that aired on July 25, PM Modi discussed the value of handlooms and the need to encourage artists and weavers to grow the sector, focusing on the Bhunkar community's production and consumption of khadi. This day emphasizes the consumption of the traditional handmade outfits which are the essence of India’s rich culture. Also, to give an employment opportunity and worldwide recognition to the creative weavers, this day holds immense prominence.
The Celebration:
The use of Swadeshi products which also includes Khadi apparel is marked back in the Indian freedom struggle which insisted the denizens deny using foreign-made clothing. Gandhiji launched the Swadeshi Movement to encourage the use of locally produced goods.
But the handloom community which was inclining towards perishing gained a significant upsurge after National Handloom Day. Since then, people, especially women attire themselves in handmade clothes on this day ranging from Kanjeevaram to Ikat based on the states they belong to and promote the usage of desi garments the artisans weave. To pass the legacy of the exceptional handmade art forward, and to honor the stellar craftsmanship, the textile ministry also facilitates the weaving and marketing efforts with the awards such as Sant Kabir Award, National Award, and National Merit Certificates. The government of India also takes measures to facilitate yarn supply and loans to the weavers.
“In the tapestry of life, we’re all connected. Each one of us is a gift to those around us helping each other be who we are, weaving a perfect picture together. ”
― Anita Moorjani
The above quote reminds us of the paramount value of weaving in the minds of rural India. It’s not just about dressing up traditionally. It’s about the connection between the diverse yet interconnected cultures flourishing in India.
Magique’s Contribution:
A significant number of women in the nation receive work and empowerment through the handloom sector, which is the second-largest employer in the country. Women make up more than 70% of the industry's handloom weavers and related workers. Magique is one of the frontline brands when it comes to sustaining the artistic masterpieces of the local artisans. Having an efficient team of weavers who get the chance of making a livelihood by doing something they are already good at, Magique thrives in making intricately woven designs that also allure the Bollywood actresses to dress up traditionally.
Based in the arid regions of Rajasthan, we bring vibrancy to the wardrobes of Indians and westerners alike. From the city dotted with indigo-washed houses, we bring to you eco-friendly clothes produced using biodegradable materials, also ensuring that we keep upgrading the fashion without losing its traditional crux. We cover every possible outfit from sarees, dupattas, stoles, and such for women, and hand block cotton dresses for men. Also trending is our Bhai-Behen combo. Magique leaves no stone unturned to highlight the importance of National Handloom Day and impressively contributes to the growing handloom economy.
