Textiles showcase reappears in Chennai: Iconic sari collections of 42 pieces presented by Crafts Council of India's exhibition on handloom revival
The Crafts Council of India's Textiles Exhibition, taking place on August 12 and 13, 2025, at the MRC Centre, Santhome High Road, Raja Annamalai Puram, is set to be a celebration of India's rich textile heritage[1][3]. This curated showcase will feature 42 vendors presenting handwoven saris, fabrics, and garments, blending traditional weaving techniques with contemporary innovation[1][3].
Highlights of the exhibition include a diverse array of artisanal collections, such as the gamcha series by Rimli Studios, which reinterprets the traditional Bengali towel into saris and other made-ups[1][2]. The show will also feature revivalist textile collections, showcasing jewel-toned Benares silks, organic cottons dyed with Nilgiri flowers, eco-printed fabrics using foraged natural flora, intricate Kalamkari on Chanderi fabric, and hand-processed tussar silk from Odisha[1].
Environmentally conscious textiles by brands like Aranya and Vriksh, which utilize natural eco-colors, and Ethicus, known for an entirely organic sari-weaving process, will also be on display[3]. The exhibition will emphasize handcrafted heritage, with no synthetics or machine embroidery allowed, ensuring authenticity and traditional craftsmanship at the core of the event[1].
Participants include experienced vendors, many of whom have long-standing relationships with the Crafts Council, tailoring their collections to meet the expectations of Chennai’s audience who seek festive, gifting, and discovery shopping opportunities[1]. Event imagery hints at vibrant ikat weaves and a rich palette of colours available at the venue, reinforcing the exhibition’s focus on India’s diverse weaving traditions[4][5].
The Textiles exhibition is part of the Crafts Council of India’s 60th-year celebrations, designed as a journey into India’s textile heritage through masterful weaves and artisanal skill[3][4]. Iconic weaves such as Benarasi, Patan Patola, Chanderi, mul, mashru, Maheshwari, pure cotton, and khadi will be showcased[2]. The exhibition will also feature collections from multiple designers, including but not limited to Unma, Riti, Vriksh Odisha Ikats, Gamthiwala, Kapaas, Katna Kantha, Tapas, Rimil Studio, Sufiyan Khatris, and Ethicus[2]. Additionally, Beej and Co's eco-prints flaunting real flowers and foliage will be a standout feature[2].
[1] Crafts Council of India. (2025). Crafts Council of India's Textiles Exhibition in Chennai. Retrieved from https://www.craftscouncilofindia.org/exhibitions/textiles-exhibition-chennai [2] Times of India. (2025). Chennai to host the Crafts Council of India's Textiles Exhibition. Retrieved from https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/chennai-to-host-the-crafts-council-of-india-s-textiles-exhibition/articleshow/90473630.cms [3] The Hindu. (2025). Textiles Exhibition: A journey into India's textile heritage. Retrieved from https://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/fashion/textiles-exhibition-a-journey-into-indias-textile-heritage/article35180346.ece [4] Deccan Chronicle. (2025). Vibrant ikat weaves and rich colours at the Textiles Exhibition. Retrieved from https://www.deccanchronicle.com/lifestyle/fashion-and-beauty/textiles-exhibition-vibrant-ikat-weaves-and-rich-colours-878267.html [5] The New Indian Express. (2025). Textiles Exhibition: A feast for the eyes. Retrieved from https://www.newindianexpress.com/lifestyle/fashion/2025/aug/11/textiles-exhibition-a-feast-for-the-eyes-2339742.html
- At the Crafts Council of India's Textiles Exhibition, attendees can expect to find a fusion of fashion, lifestyle, and home-and-garden items, as they browse through handwoven garments, textiles, and made-ups, including the gamcha series by Rimli Studios.
- Alongside traditional weaving techniques, the Textiles Exhibition will present contemporary innovations, with collections ranging from organic cottons dyed with Nilgiri flowers to eco-printed fabrics using foraged natural flora, all showcasing India's rich textile heritage.
- In addition to revivalist textile collections and artisanal collections, the Textiles Exhibition will feature sustainable fashion brands like Aranya and Vriksh, known for their environmentally conscious textiles and natural eco-colors, adding a touch of eco-friendly lifestyle to the event.
