National Handloom Day : Trainee Product Sale at Numaish Gah receives overwhelming response

Srinagar, Aug 08: Encouraged by the overwhelming response to the Trainee Product Sale held as part of National Handloom Day, the Department of Handicrafts and Handlooms, Kashmir, is set to organise a Gandhi Shilp Bazaar at Kashmir Haat, also known as Numaish Gah, from August 20 to 27 later this month.On Wednesday, a large number of visitors flocked to Kashmir Haat to purchase handicrafts and handloom products created by trainees from various departmental training centres. These products were sold at nominal rates, based on the cost of raw materials. The vibrant hand-knotted woollen carpets from the Massive Carpet Scheme centres were particularly popular, selling out quickly with sales nearing Rs 5 lakh.In response to this high demand, the department has announced plans to hold a bid-based auction of trainee products produced at the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT), Srinagar. Both silk and woollen carpets will be auctioned to the highest bidders, as per a department spokesperson.The departmental stalls displayed a wide array of items, including Crewel and Sozni embroidered shawls, Zari embroidered ladies’ suits and pherans, Chain Stitch, Tapestry, Namda products, as well as papier mache and willow wicker souvenirs and decor items, all recording impressive sales.The department also organised a live demonstration of Kani weaving and the traditional art of hand-spinning Pashmina through its School of Designs wing. “National Handloom Day provided a great platform to highlight Srinagar city’s unique recognition as a Craft City by the World Craft Council and as a UNESCO City under its Creative Cities Network,” the spokesman added.The Trainee Product Sale is scheduled to continue until August 10. Following this, a high-profile Gandhi Shilp Bazaar will be hosted at Kashmir Haat from August 20 to 27, offering local buyers an excellent opportunity to purchase authentic, handcrafted products and participate in the ‘Be Vocal for Local’ campaign.