The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) curated “Legacy of Craft” for the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, at The Kunj — New Delhi’s newly inaugurated cultural destination dedicated to celebrating India’s artisanal heritage.
The evening unfolded as a multi-sensory celebration of craftsmanship and culture. Karigar Sangam showcased over 100 masterpieces created by National Awardees, Shilp Gurus, and master artisans, where visitors not only admired but also purchased directly from the creators—reflecting a deepening appreciation for India’s craft traditions. The highlight of the evening was a fashion showcase featuring the works of Divyam Mehta, Payal Jain, Samant Chauhan, Suket Dhir, and Upāvita.
Each designer presented collections that wove Indian craft legacies into contemporary expressions, bringing heritage techniques like Kantha, Chikankari, hand embroidery on Bhagalpuri silks, hand block print, Ikat, and Chanderi into the limelight.
The chief guest who graced the event was Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles. Also present were Smt. Neerja Sekhar, Additional Secretary,Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Rohit Kansal, Additional Secretary, MOT, Mugdha Sinha (IAS- MD, ITDC), Smt. Shubhra – trade advisor and Ms. Apoorva Srivastava, Ambassador to the Slovak Republic.
The showcase was interwoven with a live music performance and a graceful Kathak recital, transforming the evening into a vibrant cultural affair where design, craft, music, and dance came together in harmony. Speaking on the occasion, Amrit Raj, Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, said: “The Kunj has been conceived as both a cultural beacon and a dynamic commercial hub. Through curated exhibitions, retail spaces, live demonstrations, and cultural programming, it will serve as a permanent destination to celebrate the spirit of ‘Handmade in India, Crafted for the World.’ ‘Legacy of Craft’ was a befitting event to this vision, showcasing how India’s timeless craft traditions continue to inspire and thrive.”
Sunil Sethi, Chairman, FDCI, added: “The Kunj is a landmark initiative of DC Handicrafts, Ministry of Textiles, envisioned to spotlight India’s artisanal legacy.
FDCI was delighted to curate ‘Legacy of Craft’ as part of this initiative, bringing together designers, artisans, and performers in one holistic evening of creativity. I was delighted to see people not just appreciating but also purchasing at Karigar Sangam and other shops, reaffirming the vitality of our crafts. The evening truly reflected how heritage, fashion, and culture can come together to create a meaningful experience.”
