‘Tradition and Innovation’ Unveiled at the Crafts Museum
Minister of Textiles Sh Giriraj Singh and Minister of State for Textiles Sh Pabitra Margherita inaugurated the Indian Textiles Gallery II, in an exhibition titled “Tradition and Innovation”.
On August 8th, 2024, the National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, unveiled the Indian Textiles Gallery II. The inauguration was graced by Hon’ble Minister of Textiles, Sh Giriraj Singh, and Hon’ble Minister of State for Textiles, Sh Pabitra Margherita.
“This exhibition breathes life into India’s fast-disappearing crafts, offering a treasure trove of inspiration for the younger generation. It allows them to appreciate the depth of our cultural heritage and witness the blend of tradition and innovation,” remarked Sh Giriraj Singh. He highlighted how the artisans’ work displayed in the gallery serves as a lesson in the richness of our legacy, filled with exquisite weaves and artistry.
Sh Sunil Sethi, an art and design enthusiast, and President of the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), shared his excitement about the exhibition. “It was an honor for the FDCI to be involved in setting up this exhibition. Over eight months, we meticulously sifted through a vast collection of vintage artifacts to curate a narrative that showcases the most remarkable and innovative textiles. The sheer beauty of handwork and design thinking is evident in this exhibit. Minister Giriraj Singh, our guest of honor, expressed great appreciation for the exhibition,” said Sethi. He also extended heartfelt thanks to the Crafts Museum and the Ministry of Textiles for their invaluable support.
The event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Textiles, including Secretary Rachana Shah, Additional Secretary Rohit Kansal, Development Commissioner of Handicrafts Amrit Raj, Development Commissioner of Handlooms Dr. M Beena, and Additional Secretary and Financial Advisor Asit Gopal. The project, spearheaded by the Development Commissioner of Handicrafts, Ministry of Textiles, Amrit Raj, showcases the dynamic evolution of Indian textiles, celebrating both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetic innovations.
-L to R – FDCI Chairman & Curator Sunil Sethi, Sh. Giriraj Singh, Hon’ble Minister of Textiles, Sh. Pabitra Margherita, Hon’ble Minister of State for Textiles and Rachna Shah, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles at the Opening of the Textiles Gallery II “TRADITON & INNOVATION” under Ministry of Textiles at National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy, Pragati Maidan New Delhi
Pawan Sachdeva, Reynu Taandon, Anjana Bhargav, Rajesh Pratap Singh, Sh. Pabitra Margherita, Hon’ble Minister of State for Textiles, Sh.Giriraj Singh, Hon’ble Minister of Textiles, Payal Jain, Sunil Sethi, JJ Valaya, Ashish Soni, Varun Bahl, Shruti Sancheti and Samant Chauhan
The Indian Textiles Gallery II stands as a testament to the ever-evolving nature of Indian textiles. The exhibit explores how traditions have transformed over centuries, adapting to regional variations and incorporating modern influences. With nearly 150 objects on display, the gallery employs cutting-edge museum standards for lighting and presentation. Specially designed LED lighting with sensors and dimmers enhances the visual experience, while podiums, platforms, and toughened glass protect and showcase the vintage textiles.
Additionally, a dedicated area within the gallery will feature a rotating exhibit every three months, highlighting modern transformations of traditional textiles. This inaugural rotation spotlights a retrospective of 30 years of work by textile fashion designer Payal Jain, offering a fresh perspective on the timeless art of Indian textiles.
