Shillong, August 7: The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Shillong, is observing National Handloom Pakhwada 2026 from August 3 to 21 with a series of programmes aimed at celebrating India’s handloom traditions and encouraging young people to preserve and promote indigenous textile heritage. The celebrations bring together weavers, students, faculty members and craft enthusiasts, with particular emphasis on the diverse weaving traditions of the North East.
Inspired by the ideals of the Swadeshi Movement, the programme highlights handloom as an important part of India’s cultural identity as well as a sustainable livelihood and creative industry. A major highlight was a live weaving demonstration inaugurated on August 3, during which master weavers showcased traditional weaving techniques and interacted with participants on indigenous materials, practices and the cultural significance of handloom. Students from various departments of NIFT Shillong participated in the programme, along with students from the Department of Home Science, St. Mary’s College, Shillong.
Addressing the gathering, NIFT Shillong Director Dr. Brijesh Deore described the handloom sector as one of India’s major national assets and stressed the collective responsibility to preserve and promote indigenous textile traditions. He said NIFT Shillong seeks to connect students directly with weavers so that traditional knowledge can inspire contemporary innovation and help take local craftsmanship to wider markets.
Founder of Eri Weave, Meghalaya, Lebaini Rymbai, also addressed the programme and highlighted the potential of traditional crafts in sustainable entrepreneurship, innovation and social impact. Drawing from her experience in developing a sustainable Ryndia (Eri) silk enterprise, Rymbai encouraged students to explore new market opportunities while preserving indigenous weaving traditions and strengthening artisan livelihoods.
Master weaver Regina Sujai, who has more than two decades of experience in Eri handloom weaving, also participated in the programme. Her contribution highlighted the important role played by artisans in sustaining Meghalaya’s indigenous textile traditions.
The National Handloom Pakhwada celebrations will continue until August 21 with photography and reel-making competitions, styling contests, natural dye workshops, painting and quiz competitions, heritage walks, cultural performances, exhibitions and social media campaigns.
NIFT Shillong said the initiative seeks to encourage students across design, communication and management disciplines to celebrate, promote and innovate around indigenous textiles while recognising the contribution of India’s weavers to the country’s cultural heritage.
