FLO Uttarakhand, under the leadership of Chairperson Dr. Geeta Khanna, hosted a session, “Exploring Indian Textiles with Himanshu Verma – India’s Saree Man” at Hotel Aketa, Rajpur Road, Dehradun. The program was graced by Chief Guest Shri V. D. Semwal, Minister of State, Government of Uttarakhand & Chairman, Uttarakhand Handloom and Handicraft Development Council, who highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting India’s handloom traditions.
The session was steered by Day Chairs Maneet Suri (Joint Secretary) and Lubna Mirza (Handloom, Textile & Handicrafts Initiative Lead), who ensured the smooth flow of the program. Renowned cultural curator and Founder of Red Earth, Himanshu Verma, fondly known as India’s Saree Man, conducted an engaging and insightful workshop for FLO members. His presentation began with the demonstration of the Ganesh Dwar from Gujarat, moving on to the traditional Toran and a rare 17th-century Kalamkari Rumal.
He also explained the significance of motifs and textile traditions across India, including the Poppy flower motif symbolizing beauty and resilience, the Leheriya prints of Rajasthan representing fluidity and vibrance, the devotional artistry of Picchwai paintings, the complex weaving traditions of Ikkat sarees, the delicate craftsmanship of Kota weaves, and the enduring legacy of block printing.
Through his pioneering work with Red Earth, Verma has revived traditional weaves, empowered artisan communities, and positioned the saree as a symbol of cultural pride and self-expression, while also challenging stereotypes around dress and gender. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Geeta Khanna, Chairperson FLO Uttarakhand, said, “Through this workshop, we were able to rediscover the timeless stories woven into Indian textiles. It was a reminder of how our heritage is not just to be preserved but celebrated and passed on.”
Chief Guest V. D. Semwal added, “The strength of Uttarakhand’s future lies in empowering its artisans and reviving handloom traditions. Initiatives like this by FLO play a crucial role in keeping our craft legacy alive.”
The event witnessed the presence of FLO dignitaries, including Past Chairpersons Kiran Todaria, Komal Batra, Neha Sharma (National Governing Body Member), and Anuradha Malla, along with Senior Vice Chairperson Tripti Behl, Vice Chairperson Meenakshi Soti, Secretary Smriti Batta, and several FLO members.
Also present were special guests, including Anurag Chauhan, Founder of Humans for Humanity, Assistant VP, DBUU, Nancy Bansal, and GM Information and Broadcast, UKCDP, Uttarakhand Neelam Bhatt Silswal, who extended their support to the initiative.
The program was supported by The Shawl Story, Creatiwitty, Indo Ganga Holidays, Mind, Body & Soul, Cafe Marigold, Olympus High, Vimla Rugs, Sterling Marbella, and Shiv Opticals, who partnered with FLO Uttarakhand in making the event a resounding success. Around 55 people participated in this event, and achieved good community outreach by reaching around 5 lakh individuals.