Handlooms are no longer reserved for weddings and festivals. Handloom Day brings a packed calendar of exhibitions, artisan markets and craft showcases across the city. From office wear to weekend outings, handwoven textiles are increasingly becoming part of everyday wardrobes. “At a time when fast fashion is creating so much waste, choosing handloom is a conscious step towards sustainability,” says actor Radhika Narayan. For textile curator Lavina Basota, Karnataka’s own weaving traditions deserve greater recognition. “Karnataka is home to several extraordinary handloom traditions that remain underappreciated. When people think of South Indian silks, they immediately think of Kanchipuram, but Karnataka has Molakalmuru, where weavers are doing exceptional work. It has the potential to become the Banaras of the South,” she says.This weekend’s Handloom Day eventsAs more people embrace handwoven textiles beyond festive occasions, here’s where you can discover Karnataka’s rich weaving traditions, shop directly from artisans and add timeless weaves to your wardrobe:The Handwoven GardenA special 10th anniversary exhibition by Vani Vrtti showcasing handwoven designer sarees and textiles.Where: Bangalore International Centre, DomlurWhen: Friday-SaturdayGoSwadeshi Utsav by GoCoopA curated showcase of handloom sarees and handcrafted textiles from artisan partners across India.Where: Jayamahal PalaceWhen: Friday-SundayA Hundred Hands Craft ExhibitionBrowse ethically made textiles and handcrafted products created by artisan collectives.Where: Forum SouthWhen: Friday-SundayBangalore Arts and Crafts MelaA one-stop destination for handloom weaves, traditional crafts and artisan products.Where: Karnataka Chitrakala ParishathWhen: Friday-SundayAll India Karigar MelaFeaturing regional handloom weaves and handmade products from artisans across the country.Where: Sri Sai Palace Hotel, BelathurWhen: Friday-SundayKarnataka weaves to discoverMysore Silk: Pure mulberry silk woven with real gold zariIlkal: Famous for its contrasting pallu and signature red bordersKasuti: Traditional embroidery featuring geometric and temple-inspired motifsMolakalmuru Silk: Vibrant silk sarees known for intricate zari work and nature-inspired motifs
Style handlooms they way you like itFashion guru Prasad Bidapa suggests:Pair khadi shirts with jeansStyle an Ilkal or Kota Doria sari with a crop top and sneakersElevate basics with handloom scarves and stoles.Actor Radhika Narayan recommends:Try handloom dresses, jackets and skirts — not just sarisExperiment with contemporary silhouettes such as corsets and gownsMake handloom part of your everyday wardrobe instead of saving it for special occasions
