The much-awaited “Festive Edit 2025” of Shilpkaaree — a leading platform dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Indian handlooms and handicrafts — began on Wednesday. The exhibition was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Director General of Income Tax (Investigation) IRS Renu Amitabh by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Among the distinguished guests were Chairman, Disha Foundation, Mala Khaitan; Director, IICD Jaipur, Dr. Toolika Gupta; President, Jaipur Club Limited, Ajeet Saxena and Social Entrepreneur, Sudhir Mathur. On this occasion, meditation expert and Yagna Acharya, Nirmala Sewani, infused spiritual energy with Vedic chants. Shilpkaaree’s founder, Shilpi Bhargava, shared that the exhibition is presenting a curated collection of handcrafted sarees, textiles, garments, yardages, jewellery and handicrafts, keeping in mind new trends and sustainability. Shilpkaaree serves as a platform for artisans and designers who are keeping India’s textile legacy alive. Through this platform, artisans and designers from various regions of India are showcasing their crafts and unique creations. This year, several interactive sessions, workshops, live music and other engaging activities are also being organized during the exhibition. The exhibition features a rich and extensive range of handcrafted textiles and traditional embroidery, including Sufi embroidery, Gamcha weave embroidery, Iranian and Persian embroidery, Kantha, Batik, Patola, Bhujodi, Tangaliya, Shibori, Chikankari, Banarasi sarees, Bihar handloom, Madhubani, Sindhi embroidery, Ajrakh, as well as Bihar and Bengal handlooms. In addition, hand-painted suits and sarees, handcrafted jewellery, silver jewellery, art products and handmade ceramic products are part of the exhibition, reflecting the diversity and creativity of Indian handicrafts.
A special live music session for visitors was held, where artist Narendra Chaudhary captivated the audience with his soulful performance. Interactive Sessions and Workshops During the exhibition, on 24 and 25 September, interactive sessions focusing on traditional Indian crafts are being held at Jaipur Club from 2 PM to 4 PM. In these sessions, participants get an opportunity to learn, understand and experience traditional art forms like Batik, Eco Print, Hand Painting and Madhubani. On 25 September, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, an exclusive Eco Print Workshop will be organised, conducted by renowned social entrepreneur, textile designer and founder of Mulya Creations, Alisha Mandolia. It is to be noted, this workshop is specially hosted by Mulya Creations from Dehradun. The aim of the workshop is to promote traditional eco-friendly techniques and provide participants with practical insights into the craft. Saree Draping Session & Dandiya–Garba Performances On Friday, 26 September, a special Saree Draping Session will be organised for the FORTI Women Wing from 2 PM to 4 PM during the exhibition, where Founder of H2O Head 2 Toe Unisex Salon, Sarika Goswami, will teach the art of saree draping. In addition to that, on 25 and 26 September, Dandiya and Garba performances will also be organised at Jaipur Club’s Banquet Hall from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM, choreographed by Nikhil Thakur.
