Bhubaneswar is buzzing with excitement as the state celebrates National Handloom Day today, August 7, 2025. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi will kick off the festivities at Janata Maidan, with Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit in attendance as a special guest.
Key Highlights of the Celebration
- Mega Handloom and Handicraft Exhibition: Running from August 7 to 13, featuring 60 stalls showcasing products from over 1,500 weavers from Odisha and artisans from more than eight states.
- Ekta Festival: Happening on August 8 and 9 with cultural programs, fashion shows, and more.
- Cultural Extravaganza: Evening events include Odissi and Sambalpuri folk dances, contemporary acts, fashion shows, and a laser show.
- Awards and Knowledge Sharing: Deserving weavers will be awarded, and there'll be seven knowledge-sharing sessions, live weaving demonstrations as part of the EKTA program.
Purpose and Theme
National Handloom Day honors India's rich textile heritage and promotes handlooms and weavers. This year's theme is "Handlooms – Empowering Women, Empowering the Nation", highlighting the role of women in India's handloom industry.
Minister Pradeep Balasamat has invited the public to join in the celebrations, emphasizing the importance of promoting Odisha's handloom legacy.