Art & Culture

A seminar on “Furniture Industry Compliance & Certification” was organized under the aegis of the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) in collaboration with Complise India and Complise Global on 12 June 2026 at Hotel Tulip, Jaipur. The programme witnessed the participation of around 90 delegates, including representatives from Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), handicraft…

The Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, organized a Cross Functional Convergence Meeting with the objective of strengthening coordination, collaboration, and convergence among various organizations/institutions for the overall development of the handicrafts sector. The meeting was organized with the following objectives: To facilitate effective coordination and convergence among various…

In rural areas of India, agriculture remains the primary source of livelihood, while handloom and handicrafts often serve as a secondary source of income for many families. People in these regions possess deep knowledge of their traditional skills and crafts, which are passed down from generation to generation. Using locally available natural resources, they create…

The handicrafts industry plays a vital role in the growth of the Indian economy by generating employment, preserving cultural heritage, and contributing to exports. The Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India has undertaken several initiatives to enhance business opportunities in both domestic and international markets. The organization actively encourages…

The Design and Technology Development Workshop (DDW) commenced on 27th February 2026 at Village Kotjewar, Jaipur, Rajasthan. The workshop is being organized under the jurisdiction of the Handicrafts Service Centre (HSC) and is implemented by the Indian Institute of Crafts and Design (IICD). This 25-day intensive programme focuses on the traditional craft of Jaipur Blue…

Success Story of Miss Shipali Sharma Embroidery Artisan (Artisan ID: NRUPC657622)HSC Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir Miss Shipali Sharma, a dedicated and skilled embroidery artisan from Kah Falata, District Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir, has emerged as an inspiring example of empowerment and entrepreneurship through sustained support from various handicraft development initiatives. She began her journey at…

Ranjna Sandhu, a talented painting and Mandala artist from a small village in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, has built her artistic identity through quiet determination and unwavering passion. Growing up amidst the serene mountains, flowing rivers, and vibrant Pahadi culture, she developed a deep connection with colors, patterns, and creativity from an early age. Though…

The Handicrafts Service Centre (HSC), O/o the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), New Delhi, organized a Craft Demonstration and Awareness Programme at Government Girls Senior Secondary School No. 2, Najafgarh, New Delhi, on 06/02/2026. The students were trained by National Awardee Smt. Jyosh­tna and Shri Narendar, State Awardee, who conducted live demonstrations of various crafts under the…

The Handicrafts Service Centre, Jaipur under the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), organised a Craft Learning and Hands-on Experience Programme at Kunda Craft Village, Jaipur. Today, on 27/11/2025, a group of 40 students and two staff members from IICD Jaipur participated in the programme and visited the craft village. Participants received first-hand exposure to…

Chilean weddings are vibrant celebrations filled with distinctive customs that showcase the country’s rich cultural traditions. These events bring together family and friends to honor love and unity through various rituals. From exchanging rings to lively dances, each element of a Chilean wedding is uniquely meaningful. Here are five cherished traditions that make these weddings unforgettable and significant for all involved. In Chile, exchanging rings is the central part of the wedding ceremony. Unlike in many other cultures where rings are worn on the left hand, Chilean couples wear their wedding bands on their right hand. This tradition represents the unity and commitment of the partners. The ring exchange typically occurs during a ceremony celebrating the couple’s official union in the presence of family and friends. La Hora Loca, known as “The Crazy Hour,” is a lively tradition that adds excitement to Chilean weddings. During this hour, guests don bright costumes and accessories, dancing energetically to lively music. Typically happening after dinner when guests are in high spirits, this celebration encourages everyone to let loose and enjoy themselves to the fullest. Las arras is a significant tradition in which the bride and…