On This Day, August 7: Remembering National Handloom Day and the Start of the Swadeshi Movement

NEW DELHI, India – August 7 holds a special place in India's history, commemorating the resilience of its artisans and a pivotal moment in the nation's fight for freedom. It is a day that celebrates the rich heritage of handloom weaving and a powerful movement that promoted self-reliance and national pride.
Here’s a look at the significant events that took place on this day:
2015: National Handloom Day is Established
On this day, we honor the handloom weaving community and their invaluable contribution to India's culture and economy. The handloom sector is a source of livelihood for millions of weavers, and this day is a tribute to their skill, artistry, and dedication. National Handloom Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of handloom weaving and to encourage people to support local artisans by choosing hand-woven products.
1905: The Swadeshi Movement is Launched
On this day in 1905, the Swadeshi Movement was formally launched in Calcutta (now Kolkata). This movement was a response to the British government's plan to partition Bengal. Leaders called for a boycott of foreign goods and a greater reliance on Indian-made products, becoming a powerful symbol of economic resistance and a key moment in India's struggle for independence.