The National Handloom Expo, also known as the Gandhi Bunkar Mela, is currently taking place at the National Center for Heritage Textiles (Handloom Haat) in Janpath, New Delhi. This event, started from February 6 to February 19, brings together crafters and weavers from 12 Indian states, with a special focus on the Northeast. Organized by the Nagaland Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited (NHHDC) under the Ministry of Textiles, the expo provides a platform for crafters to showcase their skills and sell their handcrafted products. Entry is free, and visitors can explore the stalls daily from 11 AM to 8 PM.
The expo features 80 stalls filled with a variety of handloom and handicraft products from different regions of India. The Northeastern states, including Meghalaya, Manipur, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, and Sikkim, are the main spotlights. Artisans from other states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Odisha, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Andhra Pradesh are also participating. This event helps artisans gain recognition and expand their businesses while preserving India’s traditional craftsmanship.
The expo began with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony attended by key dignitaries, including Dr. M. Beena, Development Commissioner for Handlooms, Government of India; Prasielie Pienyu, Chairperson of NHHDC; and Er. Y. Lipongse Thongtsar, Managing Director of NHHDC. Dr. Beena spoke about the significance of the handloom and handicraft industry in maintaining India’s cultural identity. She highlighted that 60% of the country’s weavers are from the Northeast, and events like this help them gain visibility and opportunities.
Chairperson Prasielie Pienyu emphasized how such expos encourage artisans to learn new skills, exchange ideas, and improve their craftsmanship. These events also support small businesses and women entrepreneurs who play a vital role in the handloom sector.
Visitors can also explore stalls selling organic food products such as papads, pickles, and badi (special dried food items). Additionally, traditional foods from different regions are available, making the expo an enjoyable cultural experience. There is even a play area for children to have fun.
During her visit, Dr. Beena interacted with artisans, appreciating their hard work and creativity. Many visitors praised the event for celebrating India’s rich traditions and providing artisans with an excellent platform to grow and succeed.
The National Handloom Expo serves as a bridge between skilled artisans and buyers, ensuring that India’s traditional crafts continue to flourish. By promoting handmade products on a larger scale, the event helps safeguard these precious skills for future generations. (PR)