The Karnataka Handloom Development Corporation (KHDC) has organized the Hathkargha Mela State Handloom Expo at the Institute of Engineers in Dharwad, generating significant business worth Rs 63 lakh within the first ten days. This vibrant exhibition and sale event, set to run for two weeks and concluding on November 14, has become a popular destination, drawing large crowds of handloom enthusiasts and shoppers alike. Artisans and members of handloom weavers' cooperatives from nine states, including Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Karnataka, have brought a range of artistic pieces, offering visitors an opportunity to experience and purchase the diverse crafts of India.

The expo has not only showcased the incredible craftsmanship of these artisans but also created a platform for cultural exchange, allowing people in Dharwad to appreciate the rich heritage each region offers. From intricate handwoven saris and embroidered shawls to carpets, shirts, bedsheets, clay pottery, and other handcrafted items, the expo offers a glimpse into India’s handloom diversity. The high demand for these items highlights the public’s growing interest in supporting traditional craftsmanship.

Shivanand Patil, the Karnataka Minister for Textiles, visited the exhibition and praised the initiative, emphasizing that the event aims to provide expanded market opportunities for handloom products crafted by skilled weavers and cooperative groups. Patil noted that such events are crucial for preserving these unique crafts, which face the risk of fading in today’s rapidly changing market. “This expo empowers families that rely on weaving by giving them a platform to showcase and sell their work directly to customers,” he added.

For the weavers, this expo is not only about sales but also about recognition and appreciation for their dedication and talent. It’s a celebration of traditional techniques and cultural heritage, with the added benefit of income generation for families dependent on handloom for their livelihood. Through events like this, KHDC hopes to reinvigorate public interest in handloom products, thereby sustaining these traditional art forms for generations to come.