National Handloom Day 2025: Handloom is more than just a traditional textile technique. It represents India’s deep cultural roots through a commitment to sustainable and conscious fashion. Every thread carries the story of its weaver, the region it was made in, and the centuries-old tradition behind it. In today’s world, where fast fashion dominates, choosing handloom is a way to support artisans and invest in pieces that are both meaningful and timeless.
If you are someone who has always admired handwoven fabrics but never knew how to identify or choose the right one, this guide is a great place to start. We will cover everything from what handloom is to how to tell it apart from machine-made fabric and how to make your first purchase confidently.
National Handloom Day 2025: Date, History and Significance
National Handloom Day is observed every year on August 7 to celebrate India’s rich weaving heritage. According to the Press Information Bureau (PIB) of India, this date commemorates the launch of the Swadeshi Movement in 1905, which encouraged people to use locally made products and boycott foreign goods.
In 2015, the Government of India officially declared this day to honour handloom weavers and boost awareness of the sector’s importance in rural livelihoods. According to the PIB, the 2025 event will be held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, with key awards like the Sant Kabir Awards and National Handloom Awards being presented to honour excellence in the field.
What Is Handloom Fabric?
Handloom fabric is cloth woven manually on a hand-operated loom, without the use of electricity. According to Dastkar Andhra, it can be made with either handspun or millspun yarn, but what defines it is the weaving process done entirely by hand. This method produces fabric that is soft, breathable and often has a slight irregularity in texture, which is a sign of authenticity and not a flaw.
Key Differences Between Handloom And Powerloom Fabric
Feature |
Handloom Fabric |
Powerloom Fabric |
Texture and Look |
Slight irregularities like thread pulls or tiny knots giving a human touch. These variations are what make each piece unique. |
Smooth and uniform, with a perfect finish due to automated mass production. |
Feel and Flexibility |
Soft, airy and breathable. Handloom feels gentler on the skin and often adjusts better to weather conditions. |
Often stiff or synthetic in feel, with a tighter weave and less breathability. |
Reverse Side |
The design is mirrored neatly on the back. This is a telltale sign of handloom fabric. |
The backside often shows loose threads or an unfinished weave, which is common in powerloom fabrics. |
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How To Choose The Right Handloom Fabric: A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Inspect the Texture – Handloom fabric will have small inconsistencies in the weave. Run your hand over it and feel for a natural and uneven surface.
Step 2: Check the Reverse Side – Flip the fabric. If the pattern is clean and visible on the back, it is likely handwoven. Powerloom often has floats or loose threads.
Step 3: Feel the Weight and Drape – Genuine handloom tends to drape beautifully and feels lighter despite being strong. It’s more breathable, especially in natural fibres like cotton or silk.
Step 4: Verify Fibre Content – Choose fabrics that use natural fibres. Handloom fabrics often feature pure cotton, silk, or wool, which makes them more comfortable and eco-friendly.
Step 5: Buy from Certified Sources – Buying from government-certified shops or cooperatives ensures that what you are buying is authentic and supports real artisans.
Step 6: Match Fabric to Climate or Purpose - Use lightweight cottons for hot weather and heavier silk or wool for cooler seasons. Think about what you’re buying it for.
Step 7: Support Sustainable Fashion – According to the PIB, handloom is one of the most eco-friendly textile options. Choosing handloom helps reduce the carbon footprint and supports rural livelihoods.
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With these simple tips, you're ready to recognise and enjoy the richness that handloom fabric offers.
Image Credits: Freepik
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