In an effort to celebrate and promote the textile heritage of India, Central Cottage Industries Corporation (CCIC) has organised a ‘handloom month’ titled ‘Timeless Threads’ from December 19 to January 27.

The exhibition-cum-sale started with Kashmir followed by Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Now, on display are Rajasthan and Gujarat’s textiles. The celebration of ‘handloom month’, for the first time ever, showed the finely embroided handlooms from Kashmir (including pashmina and kani shawls), weaves from Varanasi, kantha embroided work from West Bengal and chikan embroided products from UP and other embroideries from Gujarat and Rajasthan.

In the last leg of the exhibition, Rajasthan and Gujarat are showcasing striking patola, tie and dye sarees, block printed sarees, finely embroidered shawls and accessories in applique and patch work.

Alka Arora, Managing Director, CCIC, said, “We are trying to showcase that handloom can look smart and trendy. We have brought out kantha on chiffon, chikan on tussar silks, Kashmir embroidered smart jackets for youngsters which are fusion wear where embroideries are traditional but the whole look is modern. The focus is to bring out the best from our weavers and artisans and for that we are trying to incorporate new designs and still preserving the traditional beauty of the handlooms.”

Anjali Rai, Chairperson, CCIC, said “The focus of this exhibition is on highlighting the beauty of the different handloom products and that is why the exhibition has been divided into four categories.”

The Cottage Emporium, which is the leading source for Indian handicrafts created by skilled artists and masters of crafts, is also showcasing the timeless Banarasi saris and the beautiful vibrant bandhini from Rajasthan. All the products showcased have been sourced through the clusters of the handlooms division of Ministry of Textiles.