The WICCI Arts Council, West Bengal, commemorated National Handloom Day by hosting “Dharohar: A Heartfelt Tribute to the Artisans” at Ibis Kolkata, Rajarhat.

The purpose of this event was to honor the priceless contributions made by artists and to bring attention to the difficulties they encounter.

A lively lifestyle fashion show featuring designs influenced by elaborate methods and vivid colors of handloom fabrics took place in the evening.

Eminent personalities from various fields who walked the ramp were Mr. Abhinav Chandra, IAS, Director of IESWM, Mr. Hugh Boylan, Australian Consul-General in Kolkata,  and Dr. Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner.

Other esteemed guests include Shri Aneesh Sarkar, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Bidhannagar, Ms. Amita Mishra, General Manager at Ibis, Paromita Ghosh, Founder-Director of Candid Communication and Reena Dewan, State President of the West Bengal Arts Leadership Council.

The event included enlightening panel discussions with professionals from the government, business, and cultural sectors in addition to the fashion display. The future of these ancient art forms’ keepers, weavers, and karigars, was the main topic of discussion.

“Dharohar” provided a forum for stimulating discussions regarding the state of the artisanal sector and the actions required to ensure its survival. The WICCI Arts Council created an atmosphere that was supportive of artists’ crafts because it acknowledged the critical role that artists play in maintaining rich cultural heritage.

Priyanka Dutta