The last four and a half years have been transformational for Indian textiles. Industry-centric policies, technological innovations, strong R&D, and strategic market promotion have seen the sector growing exponentially and positioned Indian textiles as a most desirable and trusted brand on the global map.

To celebrate these achievements, the Ministry of Textiles organized Artisan Speak, a one-of-a-kind event that showcased India’s glorious textiles and honoured the people behind them, at Lal Qila, Delhi on January 5, 2019. The event was held at the beautiful Sawan Pavilion, with Zafar Mahalin the distance.

The Union Minister for Textiles, Ms Smriti Z Irani, presented Special Recognition Awards to seven individuals and one organization for their excellent work in the textile sector. (Details attached)

The Minister also honoured 13 master artisans for their dedication and unparalleled contribution to the handloom industry. This included six Padma Shri awardees and seven winners of the Sant Kabir Awards whose work has enriched India’s textile legacy. (Details attached)

This was followed by a beautifully-choreographed show of gorgeous sarees and outfits created by six of India’s top designers who are known for their passion for traditional textiles and craft—Anita Dongre, Anju Modi, Gaurang Shah, Rahul Mishra, Rajesh Pratap Singh and Rohit Bal. 

The event was organized by the Fashion Design Council of India. Speaking about the event, FDCI president Sunil Sethi said: “This was an evening of firsts—the first time that such an event was held in the surreal setting of Red Fort; the first time that we paid tribute to India’s top master weavers and crafts persons; and, most certainly, the first time that these artisans came together on a common platform with fashion designers and other creative individuals who have contributed so much to the textile industry. It was an honour for the FDCI to be associated with the Textile Ministry on Artisan Speak and to help organize an event of this nature.”