Bharat Tex 2026 Showcases India’s Vision to Make Handloom a Global Luxury Identity

New Delhi, Sun, 26 July 2026:

Bharat Tex 2026 has reinforced India’s growing ambition to position its handloom and textile heritage as a global symbol of luxury, innovation and sustainability. Bringing together policymakers, international buyers, designers, manufacturers and industry experts, the four-day event at Bharat Mandapam highlighted the country’s strategy to strengthen its textile sector while preserving its centuries-old craft traditions.

Fashion designer Vaishali Shadangule, who participated in a key panel discussion during the event, said India’s greatest strength lies in the authenticity of its handwoven textiles, artisan skills and indigenous weaving traditions. According to her, these core elements should remain unchanged, while the way Indian textiles are presented to international consumers must continue to evolve.

She emphasised that modern fashion should not alter traditional craftsmanship but reinterpret it through contemporary designs, styling and storytelling that appeal to global audiences. She noted that international luxury buyers increasingly value originality, sustainability and handcrafted excellence—qualities that India’s textile sector naturally possesses.

Sharing the design philosophy behind her couture label, Shadangule said her collections are developed in close collaboration with weavers, allowing innovation to emerge directly from traditional weaving techniques. She stressed that artisans should be recognised as creative partners rather than simply suppliers and should receive fair compensation for their work.

Referring to her participation in international fashion platforms, including Paris Haute Couture Week, she said global audiences are increasingly appreciating Indian handloom for its contemporary appeal and premium craftsmanship. Such recognition, she added, demonstrates that heritage and modern design can successfully coexist on the world stage.

During Bharat Tex 2026, Shadangule participated in the session titled “Indian Brands, Global Ambitions: Redefining Retail Growth Beyond Borders,” where discussions focused on expanding the international presence of Indian fashion and textile brands.

She welcomed the government’s emphasis on strengthening the textile ecosystem through improved quality standards, sustainability, artisan welfare and enhanced global competitiveness. She also underlined the importance of traceability in textile production, stating that technologies such as blockchain can improve transparency, build consumer trust and reinforce India’s reputation in international markets.

Shadangule further observed that India’s long-term success would depend on supporting emerging designers and smaller brands that are gaining recognition overseas, arguing that wider global visibility would ultimately create greater opportunities for artisans and the broader handloom industry.

The designer also praised Bharat Tex as an effective platform that connected every stakeholder in the textile value chain—from policymakers and manufacturers to innovators and buyers—helping shape a unified roadmap for the sector’s future.

She appreciated the focus on showcasing Indian craftsmanship through well-curated international exhibitions and acknowledged the Ministry of Textiles‘ initiatives aimed at supporting MSMEs, designers and artisans.

Concluding her remarks, Shadangule said India’s textile industry has the potential to become a global benchmark for luxury fashion by combining traditional craftsmanship with innovation, sustainability and strong international branding, ensuring that Indian handloom earns lasting recognition across world markets.