Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged Indians to mark National Handloom Day, which is observed on August 7 to commemorate the launch of the Swadeshi Movement in 1905. In an Instagram post, Mr. Modi was seen handling handloom materials from different parts of the country, encouraging people to celebrate the day.
The occasion highlights the significance of India's handloom sector and the artisans who keep these traditions alive. On National Handloom Day, attention was also drawn to the Bonda tribe of Odisha, whose women continue to preserve the handwoven Ringa, a weave that defines their identity. The tribe's enduring craft serves as an example of the country's rich handloom heritage.
National Handloom Day is celebrated annually to honor weavers and promote indigenous fabrics, reminding the nation of the historical importance of the Swadeshi Movement, which championed self-reliance and local production.