11-08-2025
- General
- Fashion Value Chain
WWI & Ministry of Textiles Mark National Handloom Day
Whistling Woods International (WWI), one of India's leading institutes for Film, Communication, and Creative Arts, joined forces with the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, to commemorate National Handloom Day with a vibrant and immersive celebration. The event honored India's centuries-old weaving traditions, blending cultural heritage with contemporary creative expression.
Hosted at the WWI campus, the program served as both a tribute and a live learning platform for students, offering them a rare, hands-on experience of the art and intricacies of handloom weaving. Master weavers from diverse regions of India demonstrated their skills on heritage looms, guiding audiences through the process—from spinning raw yarn to creating intricate woven textiles. This live craft showcase gave students direct insight into the precision, patience, and artistry behind each fabric.
Hemant Gupta, Deputy Director of Designs at the Weavers' Service Centre, explained the motivation behind the collaboration: 'We chose Whistling Woods International because it unites traditional craftsmanship with forward-looking design education. Engaging with young talent ensures India's handloom legacy remains both relevant and respected in the global design narrative.'
The WWI community also gathered to watch a live broadcast of the Hon'ble President of India's address, which highlighted the significance of handlooms in preserving India's cultural identity and strengthening its rural economy. The message inspired attendees to view heritage not as a relic, but as a foundation for future creativity.
The celebration culminated in a Handloom Fashion Showcase and a series of cultural performances. Fashion Design students presented contemporary silhouettes crafted entirely from traditional handloom fabrics, illustrating how age-old weaving techniques can be reinterpreted for modern aesthetics. The energy of the event was amplified by dynamic dance performances, symbolizing the rhythm, color, and spirit of India's artisanal traditions.
WWI President Meghna Ghai Puri reflected on the day's significance: 'Every thread tells a story; every weave carries the soul of our nation's heritage. This extraordinary collaboration brought centuries of artistry alive for our students. When young designers learn directly from master craftsmen, they carry forward a cultural legacy that will inspire future generations.'
By combining cultural immersion with academic engagement, this celebration underscored the role of institutions like WWI in safeguarding and revitalizing India's traditional arts within a modern, globally connected design ecosystem.
