New Delhi: The Development Commissioner for Handlooms, under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, hosted a fashion event titled “Breathing Threads” to celebrate the artistry of Indian handlooms. The event took place at the amphitheatre in Bharat Mandapam, alongside Bharat Tex 2025, in collaboration with Vaishali S Couture, Vaishali S Threadstories Private Limited, Mumbai, and the Handloom Export Promotion Council.
Vaishali S Couture, a brand with a 24-year legacy of reviving traditional hand weaving techniques, brought a contemporary flair to the runway with fabrics woven in villages across five Indian states: West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Rajasthan. The show featured 20 models presenting 30 distinct looks, showcasing seven weaving techniques: Chanderi, Maheshwari, Jamdani, Khun, Benarasi, Kota Doria, and Murshidabad. Each ensemble was intricately designed with unique textures and cording, blending craftsmanship with modern aesthetics.
The event highlighted the sustainable and zero-waste philosophy intrinsic to Indian village life, aligning with global trends towards ethical fashion. Organisers emphasised that Indian hand-woven textiles represent an untapped cultural and economic wealth, with the potential to gain prominence on the global luxury fashion stage through innovative presentation.
The showcase attracted international buyers from countries including Australia, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Russia, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Kuwait, and Chile, alongside key stakeholders from India’s textile industry. The event, with the support of the Development Commissioner for Handlooms and the Ministry of Textiles, underscored the enduring appeal and global viability of India’s rich handloom heritage.
Bharat Tex 2025 continues to serve as a platform to promote the nation’s textile traditions, fostering collaborations that bridge the gap between rural artisans and the international fashion market.
