Whistling Woods International (WWI), India’s premier institute for Film, Communication & Creative Arts, in collaboration with the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, celebrated National Handloom Day with an immersive experience that paid tribute to India’s rich textile heritage through live craft, cultural storytelling, and contemporary creativity.
Held at the WWI campus, the celebration brought together tradition and innovation, offering students first-hand exposure to the intricacies of handloom weaving. Master weavers from across the country conducted live demonstrations, working on century-old looms to take audiences through the entire journey from spinning the yarn to weaving the final textile. This rare display of authentic craftsmanship provided an invaluable learning experience for the next generation of Indian designers.
“We chose to partner with Whistling Woods International because it bridges traditional artistry with cutting-edge design education,” said Hemant Gupta, Deputy Director, Designs, Weavers’ Service Centre. “By engaging with these passionate students, we are ensuring that India’s handloom legacy finds relevance and reverence in the contemporary design world.”
The WWI community also tuned in for a live screening of the Hon’ble President of India’s address on National Handloom Day, which underscored the crucial role of handlooms in India’s cultural identity and economic resilience. The address served as a powerful reminder for students to view heritage as a foundation for future innovation.
The event concluded with a Handloom Fashion Showcase and cultural performances. WWI Fashion Design students took to the ramp in ensembles crafted entirely from traditional handloom fabrics, reimagined through modern silhouettes. The celebration was elevated further by dynamic dance performances, adding rhythm and colour to the narrative of India’s vibrant artisanal traditions.
Speaking on the occasion, Meghna Ghai Puri, President of Whistling Woods International, shared, “Every thread tells a story; every weave carries the soul of our nation’s heritage. This extraordinary partnership brought centuries of artistry alive for our students. When young designers learn directly from master craftsmen, they become the custodians of our cultural tapestry, ensuring that future creations carry the legacy of generations past.”
This celebration reinforced the pivotal role that creative institutions like WWI play in preserving, promoting, and reinterpreting India’s traditional arts in a rapidly evolving global design ecosystem.
