Patna: Handloom Pakhwada was celebrated with enthusiasm at NIFT Patna from August 4 to 21, bringing together students, designers and experts to highlight the legacy of India’s woven textiles and crafts.
The celebrations opened with reels and short films on handloom and handicraft practices, created by students and shared across the institute’s official social media channels. A quiz competition on the theme “Importance of Handlooms in the Development of our Country” engaged participants in exploring the diversity of crafts across Indian states and their role in national development.
On the eve of National Handloom Day, August 7, a panel discussion was held featuring eminent designer Anju Modi, known for her work in films such as Bajirao Mastani and Ram Leela. She shared her experiences of blending heritage textiles with contemporary design and reviving traditional techniques through artisan collaborations.
Other panellists included Veena Upadhyay, founder of BUN.KAR Bihar, who spoke on designer-weaver partnerships; Md. Alim Ansari of KVIC, who highlighted Khadi’s role in rural empowerment; Nagendra Kumar of Kushgram Society, who discussed opportunities in Khadi-based products; Bhairav Lal Das of INTACH Patna, who stressed research into natural dyeing; and Akhilesh Kumar, a master weaver from Nepura, Nalanda, who showcased the cultural significance of the Bawan Buti tradition.
Director Col. Rahul Sharma welcomed the speakers and urged wider adoption of Khadi and handwoven textiles in daily life. The event also featured a handloom quiz, a static display of student work from the Textile Design department, and moderation by CIC Rajni Srivastava.
From August 11 to 14, static displays featured Craft Research and Documentation projects by students across design disciplines. Experts such as Ashok Kumar Sinha of Bihar Museum, Mukesh Kumar of DC Handicrafts, and NIFT alumni reviewed and provided feedback on the projects.
The fortnight-long programme concluded on August 20 with a cultural evening and an Ethnic Walk, where students presented handwoven garments celebrating India’s textile diversity.
The Handloom Pakhwada at NIFT Patna not only paid tribute to India’s handloom heritage but also aimed to inspire future designers to carry forward the craft’s legacy.
