Saree Shastra Salutes India’s Dynamic Handloom Legacy On National Handloom Day

New Delhi, 7 August 2026: Saree Shastra | साड़ी शस्त्र, an art historical exhibition dedicated to India’s glorious handloom tradition, was inaugurated today at Art Gallery, Kamaladevi Complex, India International Centre (IIC), New Delhi, on the occasion of National Handloom Day.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Ms. Raksha Khadse in the presence of Mrs. Hema Somanathan, President, Indian Administrative Service Officers' Wives Association (IASOWA), as Guest of Honour and Shri K. N. Shrivastava Director (IIC).

Organised by Shikha’s Kariigarii, Saree Shastra celebrates the saree not just as a clothing item but as a dynamic expression of India’s history and heritage through its craftsmanship and cultural legacy. The exhibition brings together hand woven, hand painted, embroidered and GI verified textiles from all corners of the country.

Reflecting the spirit of the exhibition is the timeless Sanskrit verse:

“यत्र नार्यस्तु पूज्यन्ते रमन्ते तत्र देवताः।” -Manusmriti (3.56)

“Where women are honoured, there the divine presence flourishes.”

These lines resonate perfectly with the theme of Saree Shastra, which respects the innumerable women whose ingenuity and dedication have contributed to the Indian textile tradition. Through every drapery, color and weaving, the exhibition reveals stories of identity, pride and empowerment, paying homage to the artisans behind this beautiful craft tradition.

Addressing the event, Hon’ble Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Ms. Raksha Khadse, appreciated the effort Saree Shastra in its wonderful attempt to salute the ever living tradition of handloom weaves in India, that have been passed down through many generations by the weavers and artisans. She pointed out that efforts in celebrating the crafts and traditions of India contribute towards building the concept of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, as they bring together the cultural identity of all the regions. She emphasised on the need to promote Swadeshi and value the self reliant culture of India.

Hailing the bond that exists between women and their Indian art forms, Mrs. Hema Somanathan spoke about how Saree Shastra is an attempt to narrate stories of strength and pride associated with every saree.

Shri K. N. Shrivastava, Director, India International Centre appreciated the effort taken by organizers of Saree Shastra to provide space for the preservation and celebration of our rich art forms.

Expressing her gratitude, Shikha Ajmera, Founder of Shikha’s Kariigarii, further added, “I sincerely thank our Chief Guest, Hon'ble Minister Ms. Raksha Khadse, our Guest of Honour Mrs. Hema Somanathan, Shri K. N. Shrivastava, Director, India International Centre and all those people who have been helping us in this journey. Although, Shikha’s Kariigarii has got an opportunity of exhibiting its products on several platforms but getting an opportunity of having this exhibition at such an esteemed place as India International Centre means so much to us. It is not just about showcasing the brand, but also paying tributes to the hard work, skill and craft of the countless numbers of artists, weavers and craftsmen whose contribution has made India a great destination for textile heritage.”

The three day exhibition, curated by Aditya K. Jha, Art Historian and Curator, will go on till 9 August 2026. The exhibition features curator led gallery walks, cultural performances, a handloom inspired fashion showcase and interactions with artisans and scholars.

The panel discussions scheduled during the exhibition include:

Day 2 | Saturday, 8 August 2026 | 6:00 PM

Featuring Dr. Karan Singh – Former Union Minister of India, Ms. Mugdha Sinha, IAS – Managing Director, India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), Government of India and Ms. Bandana Preyashi, IAS – Joint Secretary, Department of Fertilizers, Government of India.

Day 3 | Sunday, 9 August 2026 | 6:00 PM

Featuring Mrs. Amrit Raj – Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, Dr. M. Beena – Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India and Ms. Promil Pande - Dean, School of Design, UID, GD Goenka University.

Working in association with the National Jute Board, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, Saree Shastra strives to increase awareness about Indian textiles and honor the artists and communities whose skills have contributed to the cultural richness of the country.

Let us together celebrate the glorious tradition of handloom weaves of India where every saree has a tale to tell and every artisan preserves an inheritance for all of us.

Event Details:

• Exhibition: Saree Shastra | साड़ी शस्त्र

• Dates: 7-9 August 2026

• Venue: Art Gallery, Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay Complex, India International Centre (Gate No. 1), 40 Max Mueller Marg, New Delhi, 110003.

• Curator: Aditya K. Jha

• Media Coordination & RSVP: Shikha Ajmera

• Phone: +91 94034 06406 | +91 92170 40705

• Website: www.shikhas.co

• Instagram: @shikhas_kariigarii