Latest news with #HandloomMark
Fashion Value Chain
2 days ago
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Reviving Indian Handlooms: Market Trends, Export Potential, and the Global Consumer Shift Towards Ethical Fashion
Milind Khangan, Marketing Manager, Vertex Market Research India Handloom Industry: Celebrating a Legacy at Crossroads India's handloom industry can be described as one of the oldest textile traditions still in existence. It goes beyond just cultural symbolism. It acts as an economic engine that supports millions of livelihoods, empowers rural artisans, and encourages sustainable craftsmanship. As we celebrate National Handloom Day on 7th August, we should pay attention to this lively but often neglected industry. In today's fashion market, which is shaped by environmental concerns and sustainable shopping habits, the handloom industry is not only preserving tradition but also adapting to changing market demands. The Indian handloom industry employs over 3.5 million weavers and other related workers. It is the second-largest source of rural jobs in the country, after agriculture. This industry makes nearly 15% of India's total fabric output. It also produces more than 70% of the world's handwoven cloth. The sector has about 70% women workers, which reflects the contribution that the sector plays in ensuring rural growth and inclusiveness. Also discussed are clusters including Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), Bhagalpur (Bihar), Chanderi (Madhya Pradesh), Pochampally (Telangana), and Kannur (Kerala), which are world famous for their intricate weaving patterns and craftsmanship. Though socially and economically significant, Indian handloom exports are low at US$140 million in 2024 as compared to US$350 million in 2019. The total exports of cotton yarn, fabrics, finished textile articles, and handloom products, among others, were valued at around US$10 billion in 2024. This indicates there is plenty of untapped value to be created in foreign markets. Market Trends Reshaping the Handloom Industry Rise of Conscious Consumerism and Sustainable Fashion There is a growing demand for sustainable and ethically made textile products worldwide, particularly in North America, Europe, and East Asia. Indian handlooms produced with organic fibres and natural dyes and minimal carbon inputs are gaining popularity among green product consumers. Markings such as the Handloom Mark, Silk Mark, and GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) are also picking up steam. Particularly for Gen Z and millennials who desire to know the origin of products and the effects they have on the environment. Digital D2C Boom and Platform-Led Access Online platforms such as GoCoop, Okhai, Jaypore, and Amazon Karigar enabled weavers to reach consumers directly. The Indian online handloom industry saw significant expansion, spurred mostly by social commerce growth, influencer campaigns, and widening cross-border e-commerce channels. Many emerging D2C brands are using Instagram and Etsy to reach niche buyers who value authenticity, craftsmanship, and limited-edition collections. Urban Premiumization and Designer Integration India's urban luxury market is experiencing a revival of handloom as 'fashion-forward artisanal couture.' Designers are adding traditional weaving to high-fashion outfits, creating a premium identity for handlooms. This shift has increased domestic visibility and helped Indian textiles find a place in global luxury markets. Global Demand and Export Growth Potential As per Vertex Market Research, India's handloom exports in 2024 stood at around US$140 million, falling from US$350 million in 2019, with key markets including: United States (30%) United Kingdom (6%) United Arab Emirates (11%) Spain (7%) France (5%) Product categories such as fashion fabrics, bed linens, bedsheets, cushion covers, drapes, kitchen linen, western dresses, decorative furnishings, rug durries, mats, mattings, carpets, rugs, and other handloom items make up most export volumes. There is a noticeable interest in bamboo-cotton blends, wool-linen mixes, and heritage designs within European boutique collections and Japan's ethical retail stores. The upcoming Free Trade Agreements are expected to improve market access by lowering tariffs, increasing product certifications, and making it easier to source handloom goods across borders. Even with positive macro trends, India's handloom industry continues to grapple with enduring structural issues. Production is still fragmented, with the majority of weavers in small units who have limited exposure to quality raw materials and advanced equipment. Successive generations are increasingly disengaged, discouraged by poor incomes and traditional methods, which results in a slow decline in traditional skills. Financial inclusion is low, with minimal weavers having access to formal credit or MSME finance. Design innovation is also absent, with the majority of artisans being isolated from emerging consumer trends, lowering competitiveness both in the city and export markets. Weak digital infrastructure and low digital literacy in weaving clusters also remain in the way of the sector's integration into e-commerce and online marketplaces. Grassroots Innovation and Impact Models Grassroots innovations are transforming India's handloom sector. They do this by using collaborative, technology-based, and market-driven methods. The rise of Producer Companies and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) has significantly empowered weaver communities. These groups have improved access to raw materials, reduced reliance on middlemen, and allowed direct communication with buyers. Dastkar Andhra is one such model case, which supports cooperatives with equitable pricing, design contributions, and skill enhancement. Likewise, micro-enterprises such as Radhakanta Handloom in Odisha, facilitated by Swakalpa and Flipkart Samarth, have effectively turned traditional local artisans into sustainable micro-entrepreneurs with scalable business models. Designer-artisan partnerships are becoming popular. By merging modern design with traditional craftsmanship, these collaborations boost product value and create steady income for weavers. Social enterprises such as Bunavat and Anuprerna have built sustainable, transparent supply chains that offer fair pay, timely payments, and access to online marketplaces. Selective technology uptake is also accelerating the impact. While basic weaving is manually performed, computer programs for design, stock, and promotion are raising efficiency. Blockchain platforms such as Kosha AI are helping to authenticate original handloom products, in opposition to the growing menace of counterfeit goods. The Road Ahead: Strategic Recommendations for Revitalising Indian Handlooms Unlocking the true potential of India's handloom industry requires a focused approach. This approach must centre on modernisation, digital inclusion, skill improvement, and policy implementation. Upgrading infrastructure through cluster modernisation, which includes setting up dyeing units, CAD laboratories, and e-commerce centres under the Mega Cluster Scheme, will improve productivity and market readiness. At the same time, digital empowerment through subsidised smartphones, e-commerce training, and better platform access can significantly increase weavers' outreach. Skill gap needs to be bridged by greater interaction between clusters of weavers and institutions such as NIFT and international design schools. The collaboration can bring in modern aesthetics and market-oriented design thinking. Blockchain and QR-code systems can enhance supply chain integrity, guaranteeing authenticity and honest remuneration. Extension of RoDTEP coverage and conforming with international standards of exports will also enhance international competitiveness. Policy implementation needs to be tightened, especially with the successful enforcement of the Handlooms (Reservation of Articles for Production) Act, 1985. This will help check powerloom imitations and spurious goods. Moreover, protecting traditional designs with formal IP protection mechanisms will save cultural heritage and ensure artisan rights. Additional expansion of access to online markets is needed. Moving more weavers into e-commerce platforms, along with training in product photography, storytelling, and branding, will get them noticed. International trade promotion, branding 'India Handloom' and Handloom Mark abroad, will foster global consumer trust. Additional Urban Haats and direct-to-consumer models enabling can connect artisans further with consumers. Skill upgradation, design creativity, and artisan welfare require investment. Initiatives such as the Hathkargha Samvardhan Sahayata (HSS) and Weaver MUDRA Scheme need increased reach and publicity so that more artisan communities adopt them. Offering decent remuneration, social security via HWCWS, and workplace safety will attract youth to pursue the craft. Handloom Hackathon 2025-like programs foster innovation in design and sustainability. Finally, bringing together weaver-controlled collectives and producer firms is important to address sector fragmentation. These systems improve negotiating power, support bulk purchasing, and ease market entry. Ongoing government and NGO support in mentoring, training, and funding will be vital for building strong, independent handloom enterprises.
Business Standard
7 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
Taneira Champions Authenticity and Heritage with GI-tagged Offerings this National Handloom Day
NewsVoir Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], August 7: As the country prepares to celebrate National Handloom Day, Taneira, a Tata product, reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the nation's unparalleled textile heritage with the introduction of GI tagging on their offerings. Among the early adopters in the industry, Taneira becomes one of the first few Indian saree brands to present GI-certified handloom sarees, in key clusters like Banarasis, Chanderi and Maheshwari to start with. This initiative strengthens the brand's commitment to the hands behind the loom, the geographies that have shaped their craft over generations, and the traditions woven into every piece of fabric. At its core, this step underscores Taneira's dedication to authenticity and ethical craftsmanship, aiming to create a deeper connection between consumers and the communities that keep India's rich weaving legacy alive. Authenticity has been at the heart of Taneira's ethos from the beginning. From the Handloom Mark to Silk and Zari certifications, each product reflects this commitment. The introduction of GI tagging further strengthens customer trust enhancing the brand's vision of bringing the best of India under one roof, backed by provenance and purpose. As part of this initiative, Taneira works closely with vendor partners and artisan clusters to facilitate GI certification, providing documentation support, legal guidance and on-ground enablement. In a design landscape increasingly shaped by mechanized production and diminishing recognition of the craftsperson, this effort reflects the brand's deep-rooted intent to preserve and progress the quiet elegance and enduring beauty of handwoven traditions. Taneira is championing a certified and transparent approach to handloom retail. The offerings carry a suite of trusted authenticity markers such as the Handloom Mark, Silk Mark, Zari Certification, Khadi Certificate and Pashmina Certification. With the addition of GI tagging, this suite of certifications now also verifies that each weave originates from its rightful region and the artisans who have upheld it across generations. On this milestone, Mr. Ambuj Narayan, CEO, Taneira, said, "On the occasion of National Handloom Day, we at Taneira are proud to take another meaningful step in our journey to safeguard India's weaving traditions and support our artisan communities. By partnering with craft clusters and offering certified weaves, including GI-tagged products, we aim to build a transparent supply chain that not only empowers artisans but also helps customers make informed, conscious choices. Through this initiative, we continue our endeavour to offer sarees that go beyond aesthetics, pieces that embody authenticity, carry the responsibility of heritage and reflect the cultural richness of India to the world at large." By actively partnering with weaving clusters, the brand seeks to preserve the traditional knowledge systems that define Indian textiles while ensuring that weaving communities receive rightful recognition. Owning a GI-tagged saree is to own a tangible piece of India's cultural geography, history and craftsmanship. These sarees are not just keepers of tradition, but by the very nature of how they are made, handloom sarees are breathable, durable and crafted to last many generations, while combining comfort with timeless elegance. Taneira is working towards expanding its portfolio of GI-tagged clusters, with weaves from close to 10 other regions currently in progress. With each new addition, the brand moves closer to its vision of making authenticated, region-specific handlooms accessible to the modern Indian woman, while uplifting the ecosystem at every step. This National Handloom Day, Taneira invites customers to discover the stories, soil and soul woven into every thread. Taneira, the women's ethnic wear brand from Titan, the TATA group company, offers differentiated design sarees, blouses, and ready-to-wear kurta sets made from pure and natural fabrics from over 100+ weaving clusters of India and brings the best of India under one roof. Instilled with TATA trust, Taneira aims to provide rooted yet progressive Indian women with diverse craftsmanship and exclusive crafts and designs. The products cater to everyday fashion and all occasions a woman would want to adorn herself for - festivals, weddings, and special occasions. In its endeavour to provide authentic weaves that are handcrafted with love, Taneira works with weaver communities all over India. It has also launched the 'Weavershala' initiative to modernize the weaving techniques and, at the same time, preserve traditional procedures of hand weaving for future generations. In addition, the brand has introduced frame looms and all essential workspace facilities for the weavers in collaboration with localized weaver-led organizations. Currently, there are 18 Weavershalas operational across the country. Launched in 2017, Taneira offers a unique and relaxed browsing experience with knowledgeable staff to provide quality service through a strong network of 80+ stores across 41 cities. The brand is present across all prominent metro hubs and is building to strengthen its presence across key Tier I and Tier II cities. Taneira is also available online with global delivery at
Fashion Value Chain
7 days ago
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Taneira Champions Authenticity and Heritage with GI-tagged Offerings this National Handloom Day
As the country prepares to celebrate National Handloom Day, Taneira, a Tata product, reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the nations unparalleled textile heritage with the introduction of GI tagging on their offerings. Among the early adopters in the industry, Taneira becomes one of the first few Indian saree brands to present GI-certified handloom sarees, in key clusters like Banarasis, Chanderi and Maheshwari to start with. This initiative strengthens the brand's commitment to the hands behind the loom, the geographies that have shaped their craft over generations, and the traditions woven into every piece of fabric. At its core, this step underscores Taneira's dedication to authenticity and ethical craftsmanship, aiming to create a deeper connection between consumers and the communities that keep India's rich weaving legacy alive. Authenticity has been at the heart of Taneira's ethos from the beginning. From the Handloom Mark to Silk and Zari certifications, each product reflects this commitment. The introduction of GI tagging further strengthens customer trust enhancing the brand's vision of bringing the best of India under one roof, backed by provenance and purpose. Taneira Handloom Day As part of this initiative, Taneira works closely with vendor partners and artisan clusters to facilitate GI certification, providing documentation support, legal guidance and on-ground enablement. In a design landscape increasingly shaped by mechanized production and diminishing recognition of the craftsperson, this effort reflects the brand's deep-rooted intent to preserve and progress the quiet elegance and enduring beauty of handwoven traditions. Taneira Handloom Day Taneira is championing a certified and transparent approach to handloom retail. The offerings carry a suite of trusted authenticity markers such as the Handloom Mark, Silk Mark, Zari Certification, Khadi Certificate and Pashmina Certification. With the addition of GI tagging, this suite of certifications now also verifies that each weave originates from its rightful region and the artisans who have upheld it across generations. On this milestone, Mr. Ambuj Narayan, CEO, Taneira, said, 'On the occasion of National Handloom Day, we at Taneira are proud to take another meaningful step in our journey to safeguard India's weaving traditions and support our artisan communities. By partnering with craft clusters and offering certified weaves, including GI-tagged products, we aim to build a transparent supply chain that not only empowers artisans but also helps customers make informed, conscious choices. Through this initiative, we continue our endeavour to offer sarees that go beyond aesthetics, pieces that embody authenticity, carry the responsibility of heritage and reflect the cultural richness of India to the world at large.' By actively partnering with weaving clusters, the brand seeks to preserve the traditional knowledge systems that define Indian textiles while ensuring that weaving communities receive rightful recognition. Owning a GI-tagged saree is to own a tangible piece of India's cultural geography, history and craftsmanship. These sarees are not just keepers of tradition, but by the very nature of how they are made, handloom sarees are breathable, durable and crafted to last many generations, while combining comfort with timeless elegance. Taneira is working towards expanding its portfolio of GI-tagged clusters, with weaves from close to 10 other regions currently in progress. With each new addition, the brand moves closer to its vision of making authenticated, region-specific handlooms accessible to the modern Indian woman, while uplifting the ecosystem at every step. This National Handloom Day, Taneira invites customers to discover the stories, soil and soul woven into every thread. About Taneira Taneira, the womens ethnic wear brand from Titan, the TATA group company, offers differentiated design sarees, blouses, and ready-to-wear kurta sets made from pure and natural fabrics from over 100+ weaving clusters of India and brings the best of India under one roof. Instilled with TATA trust, Taneira aims to provide rooted yet progressive Indian women with diverse craftsmanship and exclusive crafts and designs. The products cater to everyday fashion and all occasions a woman would want to adorn herself for – festivals, weddings, and special occasions. In its endeavour to provide authentic weaves that are handcrafted with love, Taneira works with weaver communities all over India. It has also launched the Weavershala initiative to modernize the weaving techniques and, at the same time, preserve traditional procedures of hand weaving for future generations. In addition, the brand has introduced frame looms and all essential workspace facilities for the weavers in collaboration with localized weaver-led organizations. Currently, there are 18 Weavershalas operational across the country. Launched in 2017, Taneira offers a unique and relaxed browsing experience with knowledgeable staff to provide quality service through a strong network of 80+ stores across 41 cities. The brand is present across all prominent metro hubs and is building to strengthen its presence across key Tier I and Tier II cities. Taneira is also available online with global delivery at
News18
07-08-2025
- Business
- News18
World Handloom Day 2025: Woven in Legacy, Draped in Relevance: The Handloom Revival
On World Handloom Day, we celebrate India's textile legacy reimagined for the modern age through innovation, craftsmanship, and cultural pride. There's something quietly poetic about a handloom textile. The rhythm of the loom. The calloused fingers that dance over warp and weft. The soft rustle of fabric that carries within it stories of ancestry, artistry, and identity. On World Handloom Day 2025, we pause to reflect on this enduring craft not as a relic of the past, but as a living, breathing expression of India's cultural renaissance. Once tucked away in heirloom trunks or reserved for festivals, handlooms are now finding their place in everyday wardrobes not out of nostalgia, but out of choice. A choice that blends tradition with individualism, heritage with style. And at the centre of this powerful shift is a collective revival, one led by designers, artisans, and a growing tribe of conscious consumers. 'The story of handloom in India is one of quiet revival and powerful evolution," says Ambuj Narayan, CEO, Taneira, the Tata-backed brand that has emerged as a custodian of India's textile traditions. 'From being perceived as occasion wear or a symbol of nostalgia, it has today evolved into a meaningful expression of everyday style and cultural pride." Taneira's work goes beyond curating saris. It is a movement in itself. Through its Weavershala initiative, the brand collaborates closely with weaving clusters across the country, offering design and skill-building support to ensure the ecosystem thrives. Their commitment extends to transparency and traceability with every garment backed by certifications such as the Handloom Mark, Silk Mark, Zari Certification, and Khadi and Pashmina Certificates. In a landmark move, Taneira also became one of the early adopters of GI tagging for iconic weaving clusters starting with Banarasi, Chanderi, and Maheshwari safeguarding their geographical identity and ensuring that due credit reaches the communities that carry these legacies forward. 'It's incredibly heartening to see more women choosing handloom for what it truly represents authenticity, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to our roots," adds Narayan. It's this very philosophy that also informs the work of Asha Gautam, a luxury label that has championed Indian textiles for over 25 years. To them, handloom is not just a material it is a language. One that they speak fluently, whether in the fluid grace of a Paithani dupatta or the structured elegance of a brocade blazer. 'For us, working with handloom is more than design it is a responsibility toward sustaining heritage crafts. Paithani, Double Ikat, and Banarasi are masterpieces of Indian weaving, and our role is to ensure these art forms remain relevant for future generations while respecting the hands that create them," says Gautam Gupta, Designer and Creative Director, Asha Gautam. Their design vision blends legacy with experimentation. From Banarasi, Patola, and Bandhani to Kanjivaram and Double Ikat, their collections reimagine classic weaves through inventive silhouettes creating hybrid styles that resonate with the modern Indian aesthetic. 'We don't just preserve, we reimagine," the brand affirms. 'Our design philosophy blends craftsmanship with creativity through appliqué, embroidery, and mixed techniques, we breathe new life into traditional weaves, making them relevant for today and resilient for tomorrow." This year, Asha Gautam marks Handloom Day with a special curation of lehengas and dupattas timeless yet contemporary, rooted yet radical. Each piece becomes a bridge between generations, proving that heritage, when nurtured with imagination, can become a force of modern elegance. Fueling this revival is a new generation of consumers aware, intentional, and value-driven. They are not just buying garments; they are investing in stories, livelihoods, and a slower, more meaningful approach to fashion. Their preferences are shaping a new future — one where sustainability and culture coexist. Handloom, in that sense, is no longer just a product. It is a philosophy. A return to roots. A celebration of human hands in a machine-led world. So today, as we celebrate World Handloom Day, let's honour the ones behind the loom, the weavers who spin stories into every thread, the artisans who carry generations of wisdom in their fingertips, and the visionaries who believe that craft is the future of fashion. Because in every handloom textile lies more than a pattern, there lies a pulse. One that beats with identity, resilience, and grace. And that, truly, is India woven. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
