National Silk Expo India’s Rich Silk Heritage

Chandigarh: The National Silk Expo, organized by the Gramin Hastkala Vikas Samiti, was inaugurated today at Himachal Bhawan, Sector 28B, Chandigarh. The six-day event brings together over 150 master weavers from across the country, showcasing an impressive collection of over 1,50,000 silk sarees, suits, and dress materials.

This grand celebration of India’s silk heritage offers a unique opportunity for shoppers to explore the country’s rich weaving traditions during the wedding season. The exhibition features a diverse range of traditional and contemporary silk and cotton sarees, representing various regions such as Banaras, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Kashmir. Additionally, handcrafted jewelry and accessories are available, adding to the festive shopping experience.

Highlights of the National Silk Expo:

– Gujarat’s Double Ikat Patola Sarees: These intricately crafted sarees take up to eight months to create and feature vibrant designs and patterns, making them highly coveted.
– Maharashtra’s Paithani Sarees: Available in a price range of ₹5,000 to ₹20,000, these sarees beautifully depict village life, royal styles of kings, and Mughal art motifs.
– Banarasi Silk Sarees: A timeless favorite, Banarasi sarees at the expo include traditional zari and embroidered booti designs, Tanchoi silk, and modern interpretations inspired by Maharashtra’s Paithani motifs, priced between ₹1,000 to ₹5,000, with discounts of up to 50% for wedding shoppers.
– Kashmiri Pashmina Shawls and Silk Sarees: Exquisite pashmina products, available at the Kashmir stall, start as low as ₹3,000, while luxurious pashmina silk sarees are priced between ₹6,000 to ₹3,00,000.
– Kanjeevaram Sarees from Tamil Nadu: These regal sarees, made with pure gold and silver threads, take artisans 30 to 40 days to craft, and are priced between ₹5,000 to ₹2,00,000, reflecting their unmatched artistry.

The expo also features other types of silk products, including Mysore silk sarees, Tussar silk from Bihar, Uppada silk from Andhra Pradesh, and Moonga silk from Odisha, catering to every taste and budget. Additionally, various stalls have been set up, showcasing handicrafts and handmade jewelry.

A Celebration of Heritage and Craftsmanship

The National Silk Expo is more than just a shopping destination; it is a platform to preserve and promote India’s traditional weaving arts. The intricate craftsmanship and dedication of the weavers are evident in every piece, making this exhibition a must-visit for connoisseurs of silk and handlooms.