National Handloom Day, celebrated on August 7, honors India’s rich textile heritage and the contributions of handloom weavers, promoting sustainable fashion, local craftsmanship, and self-reliance rooted in the Swadeshi Movement of 1905.
Every year, National Handloom Day is observed in India to honor the handloom weaving community and promote the use of handwoven fabrics. In 2025, National Handloom Day will be celebrated on August 7, commemorating a vital part of India’s cultural and economic heritage.
History of National Handloom Day
The Government of India officially declared August 7 as National Handloom Day in 2015, with the first celebration taking place in Chennai. The date holds historical importance—it marks the launch of the Swadeshi Movement in 1905, a significant milestone in India’s freedom struggle. The movement encouraged Indians to boycott British goods and revive domestic industries, particularly handloom and khadi, as a symbol of self-reliance.
By choosing this date, the government aimed to remind citizens of the importance of indigenous textile industries, both as a source of livelihood and as a part of India’s identity.
Significance of the Day
The handloom sector is one of the largest unorganized economic activities in India and plays a crucial role in providing employment, especially in rural and semi-rural areas. According to the Handloom Census, millions of weavers and artisans across the country rely on handloom for their livelihoods. Their craftsmanship reflects the diverse traditions, cultures, and techniques passed down through generations.
National Handloom Day is not just a celebration but also an effort to promote sustainable fashion, support local artisans, and encourage people to choose handwoven products over mass-produced alternatives. It aims to boost the visibility of handloom goods and integrate them into mainstream fashion and daily wear.
Celebrations and Initiatives
On this day, various government departments, handloom boards, and private organizations organize exhibitions, fashion shows, workshops, and awareness campaigns to highlight the contributions of weavers. Handloom clusters across the country showcase their regional specialties—from Banarasi silks and Kanjeevarams to Pochampally ikats and Bhagalpuri tussars.