Land of Woven Dreams mesmerizes London.

A celebration to mark the 8^th National Handloom Day!

Land of woven dreams was a colourful, richly immersive exhibition held over two days 7^th & 8^th August 2022, at the Hotel Mont calm, London. The event organised by Ministry of textiles; Government of India, in association with Development Commissioner Handloom, HEPC, NHDC, NIFT, Montcalm Hotels, Here And Now 365 all with the support of High commission of India in London, coincided with 8^th National Handloom Day which is designed to celebrate India’s rich handloom heritage.

Inauguration of the event was carried out by H.E. Shri Sujit Ghosh, the current acting High commissioner of India in U.K. The exhibition was a stunning of display of hues and textiles from all over India. The highlight of the event was a live weaving demonstration by Shri Siju Arjun Vishram Vankar who has won recognition as master craftsman and received a UNESCO Seal of Excellence. His masterful weaving along with his knowledge of the process and tradition of handloom weaving within India were both exemplary.

The event was well attended with even Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Shri. Virendra Sharmaji trying his hands on handloom weaving during his visit. Other dignitaries and prominent members of the community like Commercial Minster of Sri Lanka Dr. Lakmini P. Mendis, second secretary of Sri Lankan embassy Ms. Thivanka Athuraliya, Mr Himanshu Vyas Chairman of NRG centre committee, Dr. Anandeshwar Panday treasurer of Indian Olympic association and Ms Shreeranjani the second sectary Economic all enjoyed the spell bounding textile display.

This event was preceded on 6th August 2022, by a Panel discussion held in High Commission of India organised by HEPC and High Commission of India. The distinguished panel of Ms. Susan Thomas, Ms. Vaishali S, Prof. Eiluned Edwards, and Ms. Elizabeth Ashdown were

all expertly moderated by Prof. Jonalee D Bajpai form NIFT. The panel discussed ‘Role and Relevance of Handlooms in the future of Fashion Industry’.This was followed by a tasteful cultural performance including a Dance performance on textiles by the Sanskriti Institute and a weaving demonstration. These were truly remarkable three days that showcased India’s rich handloom heritage and it’s current modern sensibilities.