Bharat Mandapam, Bharat Tex 2025 | Image Source: PIB

The office of the Development Commissioner for Handlooms, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, hosted a significant fashion event titled "Breathing Threads" at the Bharat Mandapam amphitheatre. The event, which took place on the sidelines of Bharat Tex 2025, celebrated the timeless elegance of Indian handlooms through a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern fashion. In association with Vaishali S Couture and Vaishali S Threadstories Private Limited, the event sought to honor the enduring legacy of hand-woven textiles and demonstrate their potential as luxury fashion pieces on the global stage.

Celebrating Handloom Techniques and Sustainability

The "Breathing Threads" fashion show presented a curated collection featuring hand-woven fabrics from five Indian states: West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Rajasthan. The fabrics, woven in local villages, showcased seven different weaving techniques, including Chanderi, Maheshwari, Jamdani, Khun, Benarasi, Kota Doria, and Murshidabad. These traditional weaves were reimagined through innovative design, creatively embellished with unique textures and cording, illustrating the adaptability of handloom textiles to modern fashion trends.

Vaishali S Couture, a brand with 24 years of experience in the textile industry, has been committed to reviving dying weaving techniques and bringing them to the forefront of global luxury fashion. The brand emphasizes sustainability and a zero-waste strategy, aligning with the practices of rural Indian communities where these textiles are traditionally produced.

Global Interest in Indian Handlooms

The fashion show served as a testament to the skill, creativity, and dedication required to create hand-woven textiles. It also highlighted the potential of these textiles to compete on the global luxury fashion stage. Over 20 models showcased 30 distinct looks, demonstrating the intricate work and craftsmanship involved in producing each piece.

The event garnered significant international attention, with buyers from countries such as Australia, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Russia, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Kuwait, and Chile among the audience. The success of the show reinforced the growing global interest in sustainable fashion and the appreciation for Indian handloom textiles.

Bharat Tex 2025 | Image Source: PIB