FDCI Unveils ‘Shrijan – The Birth of a Craft’ at National Crafts Museum: A Tribute to India’s Timeless Craft Traditions

The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), in collaboration with Craftroots, proudly presents ‘Shrijan – The Birth of a Craft’, a captivating visual narrative celebrating India’s ancient craft traditions. This exceptional exhibition is currently on display at the Innovation Gallery, housed within Textile Gallery II: Tradition and Innovation at the National Crafts Museum & Hastakala Academy, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Shrijan – The Birth of a Craft reimagines the spirit of traditional Indian craftsmanship through a contemporary lens. Conceived by Craftroots—an inspiring initiative founded by Smt. Anar Patel—this showcase unites textile, fashion, craft, and art in a deeply evocative and emotional journey. Originating from a skill development programme in Ahmedabad, Craftroots empowers women from underprivileged communities socio-economically while celebrating the nation’s rich artisanal heritage.

Curated by Sunil Sethi, Chairman of FDCI, each installation in Shrijan metaphorically narrates the birth, growth, emotion, and life force of craftsmanship. Through intricate artistry, the exhibition captures the profound transformation from creation to existence, symbolizing a living connection to India’s craft traditions.

“This particular showcase, led by Craftroots and curated by Sunil Sethi of the Fashion Design Council of India, brings together elements of fashion, craft, art, and culture. It serves as a visual expression of Indian craftsmanship. At the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, our mission is to consistently promote crafts and support artisans across the country. Each region offers its own distinct perspective and tradition, and through ongoing exhibitions at the National Crafts Museum & Hastakala Academy, we aim to amplify these voices,” said Ms. Amrit Raj, Development Commissioner (Handicrafts).

Speaking about the essence of the exhibition, Smt. Anar Patel, Founder of Craftroots, shared,

“Each art installation in Shrijan represents how craft is born, blossoms, experiences emotion, and transforms into its own story. Every piece symbolizes the force of cosmic energy and the profound emotions a mother feels at the birth of her child. Shrijan captures the life force and expresses a collective of emotional narratives in today’s modern era.”

Sunil Sethi, Chairman of FDCI, further added,

“India’s rich cultural tapestry is woven through its ancient relics and crafts, each narrating a story of heritage and artistry. Gujarat, in particular, is a land vibrant with classic hand embroideries and craft techniques that embody modesty and creativity. The installations at Shrijan visually capture the meticulous labour and deep love behind every creation, reflecting a metamorphosis of traditional craftsmanship into contemporary art.”

Shrijan – The Birth of a Craft stands as a powerful metaphor for life’s journey and the emotional depth of creation. Each art piece is a living testament to the evolution of Indian crafts, celebrating integration, unity, and emotional expression through breathtaking visual storytelling.

Discover the beauty of India’s timeless crafts reborn for the modern world at the Shrijan exhibition, now open at the National Crafts Museum & Hastakala Academy, New Delhi.