by Suman Gupta
Mumbai – Humanitarian Welfare And Research Foundation in collaboration with the esteemed Khadi Village and Industries Commission (KVIC), has successfully organized a remarkable Khadi Exhibition at Seva Mandal Education Society. This grand event not only celebrated the vibrant charm of Khadi but also highlighted its significant role in preserving Indian heritage and promoting sustainability. The exhibition was graced by distinguished guests and dignitaries, key representatives ncluding Mr.Yogesh Bhamare of KVIC, Smt. Sunanda Pravin Gambhirchand Institute of Nursing & Paramedical Sciences, Mrs. Shilpa Shettigar – Principal, Mrs. Delphina Gurav – Vice Principal and other notable figures from Seva Mandal Education Society, and the renowned actress Gouri Tonnk.
Khadi Village and Industries Commission (KVIC), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, Government of India, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding and promoting India’s rural heritage, fostering self-reliance, and contributing to the socio-economic development of rural communities. As part of their commitment, KVIC has launched an extensive Khadi Awareness Campaign from October 2 to October 31, 2023, aimed at increasing awareness about Khadi and its importance.
One of the campaign’s highlights was a Khadi yatra rally, held at SMES College, which saw active participation from over 4000 students. The enthusiastic participants carried banners and chanted slogans promoting Khadi in fashion, notably “Yeh Diwali Khadi Wali.” This event showcased the dynamic and contemporary side of Khadi, dispelling the misconception of it being boring or limited to stiff fabrics and dull colors.
Adding star power to the campaign, renowned actress Gouri Tonnk, famous for her role in “Shakti,” graced the event. Gouri Tonnk not only visited the exhibition but also made a significant contribution by purchasing several Khadi products. In particular, she was captivated by a Khadi bag that resembled leather but was entirely crafted from Khadi. She expressed her support for Khadi, stating, “Khadi is more versatile and sustainable than ever. This bag is not just a fashion statement; it’s a testament to the incredible craftsmanship and eco-friendliness of Khadi.”
The event was brought to life through the dedicated efforts of Christine Swaminathan from HWARF. Her leadership and unwavering commitment to social and rural development have yielded numerous impactful initiatives, including “Make Way for Ambulance,” “Village Development Program,” “Project Swatch”, Skill Development Training Programs for Government of Maharashtra and the ongoing “Yeh Diwali Khadi Wali” campaign. Christine Swaminathan emphasized the profound significance of Khadi, stating, “We believe that Khadi is not just a fabric; it’s a living testament to our rich cultural heritage and a sustainable way of life. Through initiatives like ‘Yeh Diwali Khadi Wali,’ we aim to connect the modern world with the timeless charm of Khadi, fostering a deep appreciation for its versatility and eco-friendliness.” “We believe that Khadi is not just a fabric; it’s a living testament to our rich cultural heritage and a sustainable way of life. Through initiatives like ‘Yeh Diwali Khadi Wali,’ we aim to connect the modern world with the timeless charm of Khadi, fostering a deep appreciation for its versatility and eco-friendliness” said Ms. Swaminathan.
Bubble Communication played a pivotal role by managing media communication and outreach for the entire Khadi Campaign, while the creative aspects, including conceptualization and design, were expertly handled by Halfglassfull Advertising. This collaborative partnership ensured a comprehensive approach to event management, resulting in a well-rounded and impactful experience.
The Khadi Exhibition truly emphasized the profound significance of Khadi as a symbol of Indian heritage and sustainability. Prominent figures, including actress Gouri Tonnk, showed their unwavering support for this noble cause, proving that Khadi is not just a fabric but a timeless icon of India’s cultural heritage and sustainability.
