Mumbai: Actress Vidya Balan has called on people to support Indian weavers and celebrate the country’s rich textile legacy on the occasion of National Handloom Day.
In a message shared on Instagram, Balan urged citizens to embrace indigenous craftsmanship by choosing handloom products, especially pure silk garments bearing the authentic Silk Mark Label. Known for her fondness for traditional silk sarees, the actress marked the day by visiting a facility where pure handloom silks are woven.
In a video posted online, Balan is seen observing the intricate weaving process and interacting with artisans to learn more about their skills and dedication. The visit served as a tribute to India’s weaving community and their contributions to preserving cultural heritage.
“Today as we celebrate the National Handloom Day, let us honor our weavers. Let us embrace our identity and cultural heritage. Encourage and embrace our handloom pure silks. And always buy silk with the Silk Mark Label. #MySilkMarkMyTrust,” she wrote in the caption.
National Handloom Day is observed every year on 7 August to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of weavers and promote India’s handloom industry. This year marks the 11th edition of the observance.
The date commemorates the launch of the Swadeshi Movement in 1905, which urged Indians to boycott British goods and support locally made products, especially handwoven fabrics, as symbols of self-reliance and national pride.
To recognize the historic significance of handloom in India’s freedom struggle and encourage its revival in the modern era, the Government of India officially designated 7 August as National Handloom Day in 2015, with the inaugural celebration held in Chennai.