For over two decades, Vastra Utsav has been a celebration of India’s rich textile heritage and enduring craftsmanship. Organised by the Friends of DakshinaChitra (FoD) as a fundraiser for DakshinaChitra (a cross cultural open to air, living museum of art, architecture, lifestyles, crafts and performing arts of South India, located at Muttukadu, near Chennai ) , the exhibition brings together master weavers, artisans, revivalists, and designers from across India. More than just a showcase of handwoven textiles, the initative supports the preservation of heritage crafts while connecting them with contemporary audiences.

“This year, we are delighted to host Vastra Utsav at a larger venue, with nearly 50 stalls. For the first time, visitors can also enjoy millet-based snacks from the southern states, alongside products from women self-help groups, including pickles, spice blends, and other homemade specialties. By bringing together artisans, weavers, and women entrepreneurs under one roof, Vastra Utsav continues to celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage while supporting sustainable livelihoods,” says Srilakshmi Mohan Rao, president, Friends of DakshinaChitra (FoD).

Shantha Narayanan, committee member, Friends of DakshinaChitra (FoD) says that over two days, visitors can explore an extensive range of products, including saris, semi-stitched salwar sets, home furnishings, children’s wear, handicrafts, jewellery, and traditional food products.

“Weavers from Rajasthan, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh will showcase their finest creations. Many of the master weavers themselves will be present at their stalls, giving visitors the opportunity to interact with them, learn about their craft, and appreciate the stories woven into every piece,” Shantha adds.

This year, Yuti’s Handlooms from West Bengal, promotes the State’s rich handloom heritage while creating sustainable livelihoods for women weavers. Their collection features handcrafted saris, fabrics, stoles, and blouse materials in khadi cotton, linen, matka silk, khadi silk, and ketiya silk.

Hastkaar by Bhartesh Vaibhav is a contemporary craft label that reimagines traditional weaves through ajrakh block printing, shibori dyeing, and hand embroidery. Crafted in fibres such as cotton, bamboo, and hemp, its ethical textiles brings together heritage techniques and modern design. It also creates sustainable livelihoods for rural weaving communities.

Suqoon, known for its affordable luxury, will showcase a contemporary collection of linen shirts, embroidered tops, trousers, co-ord sets, and dresses. Through Aalta Designs, Tanima Roy Choudhary reimagines the handwoven sari by blending traditional weaves with modern motifs. Saaral Handloom Studio embraces minimalism, letting the beauty of the weave, texture, and craftsmanship take centrestage.

Sunita Shroff, from Pune, will present a collection of semi-stitched kurtas that embrace sustainable, slow fashion. Threads of Chanderi, from Madhya Pradesh, will showcase an exquisite range of handwoven Chanderi saris, dupattas, and fabrics in pure silk and cotton. Renowned for their lightweight texture, intricate zari work, and elegant motifs, these textiles are crafted for both everyday wear and special occasions.

From Chennai, Palam Silks, the Kanjeevaram boutique founded by Jeyasree Ravi, will showcase its signature collection of silk saris. Visitors can explore a range of bridal Kanjeevarams, lightweight Kanjeevarams, soft silk saris, as well as linen and tussar silks at the exhibit.

The organisers say that besides the range at Vastra Utsav, there is the satisfaction of supporting the diminishing breed of skilled artisans preserving Indian handloom heritage.

@Sri Kuchalambal Kalyana Mahal, Chetpet. On July 31 and August 1 from 10am to 8pm. Entry is free.