The ‘Sootdhara – Handloom Expo’ at Handloom Haat, Janpath, successfully concluded after witnessing an impressive surge in footfall during its final days. As the event reached its closing phase, excitement and buying momentum were at their peak. More than 70 weavers from across India showcased their completely authentic, traditional handwoven products, and sales saw a remarkable rise. Several weavers shared that the demand for many popular designs had been so high that multiple products were almost sold out.
From Uttarakhand, Shri Kanwarpal of Kanwarpal Hathkargha evam Hastshilp Bunkar Samiti attracted strong attention with his woolen shawls, lohis, jackets, mufflers, and blazers—items that experienced a notable jump in sales due to the winter season. From Maharashtra, Shri Faheem Ahmed of the Giram Taleb Kabir group presented premium Paithani sarees priced between ₹25,000 and ₹35,000, whose exquisite zari work and traditional pallus became a major attraction.
From Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Shri Mushtaq Ahmed’s collection of Banarasi sarees, suit materials and dupattas registered record sales this year, particularly the lightweight festive sarees that received overwhelming demand. Meanwhile, from Himachal Pradesh, Shri Nok Singh of Himalayan Weaver Handloom & Handicrafts Industrial Co-operative Society Ltd. earned consistent appreciation for his Kullu shawls, stoles, mufflers and woolen jackets, admired for their intricate and traditional weaving patterns.
According to the organizers, the core objective of the expo had been to provide a national platform to weavers and highlight India’s rich handloom heritage. The exhibition brought together the finest weaving traditions from the Northeast’s fine textiles and South India’s silk legacy to Maharashtra’s Paithani craft, Varanasi’s celebrated silk weaving, Himachal’s woolen artistry and North India’s cotton fabrics. Visitors not only shopped but also interacted directly with the weavers to understand their techniques, tools and design processes, making the expo a culturally enriching experience.
As the expo drew to a close, footfall continued to rise. Several stalls added new stock and introduced special offers to meet the increasing demand for genuine handloom products. Organizers expressed gratitude to Delhi residents for their enthusiastic participation and support for India’s traditional weaving communities.
