Mumbai, August 14, 2025: The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), Mumbai, came alive this Wednesday as Shiv Sena National Spokesperson and acclaimed “Queen of Drapes” Shaina NC presented a landmark Handloom Fashion Show.
Organised in association with NGMA Mumbai and Tisser Artisan Trust, the event paid tribute to India’s rich handloom traditions while championing sustainability, inclusivity, and artisan empowerment. From luxurious silks to sustainably sourced cottons, Shaina NC’s signature drapes transformed the runway into a living canvas of India’s weaving legacy—merging age-old craftsmanship with contemporary elegance.
Celebrating Craftsmanship & Empowerment
Alongside the fashion show, a curated Handloom Exhibition showcased the work of specially-abled and vulnerable artisans, some of whom shared their inspiring personal journeys, underscoring the transformative power of craft-based livelihoods.
A powerful highlight was the Women’s Walk, symbolising solidarity between women achievers, cultural heritage, and social empowerment. Participants included:
IAS & NGMA Director Nidhi Chaudhari, IAS Prerna Deshbhrata, Mumbai Collector Aanchal Goyal, Dr. Madhu Chopra, model Rhea Karina, actress Anupriya Goenka, Actress Rupika Grover, IRS Riddhi Mishra, IRS (Retd.) Reena Jha Tripathi, Shweta Jasawat, Sonali Solanki, Geeta Gadekar, author Rajyalakshmi Rao, Poonam Raval, Dr. Sujata Chahande, Dr. Nandita Palshetkar, Tripti Tiwari, Nimisha Adsul, Kanan Kotecha, Sarita Kaushik, Tanuja Pandey, Sheetal Bhatkar, Barba Sehgal, Susieben Shah, Sheetal Mhatre, Zeba Naik and Aamong others.
Chief Guests’ Messages
- Dr. Neelam Gorhe, Deputy Chairperson, Maharashtra Legislative Council:
Praised the initiative for safeguarding handloom heritage while creating economic opportunities for specially-abled and marginalised artisans, urging conscious consumerism to support ‘Vocal for Local’.
- Pankaja Munde, Cabinet Minister, Maharashtra:
Highlighted the sector’s role in sustaining rural livelihoods and promoting ecological balance, lauding Shaina NC’s eco-conscious fashion philosophy and urging youth to embrace indigenous crafts.
- Aditi Tatkare, Minister of State, Maharashtra:
Emphasised women’s leadership in artisan enterprises, outlining government programmes for training, micro-entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth.
Shaina NC on the Showcase
> “Indian handloom is not just fabric — it is culture, history, and heritage woven together. This show is about applauding our artisans and ensuring their work receives the recognition it truly deserves,” said Shaina NC, who also acknowledged the Government of India and Government of Maharashtra for their commitment to preserving the industry and securing livelihoods.
PM Modi always says Make in India. The saree has made India, and we want to take the saree to the international level so that people know how you can wear a 6-yard fabric in different styles. Here, we showcased 54 styles, and over 300 handloom sarees were draped. The specialty of handloom is that the money goes to the weavers sitting in different corners of the country.
The event reaffirmed its mission of preserving India’s textile heritage, empowering marginalised artisans, and promoting eco-conscious fashion in harmony with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s *‘Vocal for Local’ vision.
NGMA Mumbai Director, IAS Nidhi Chaudhari, expressed her gratitude:
“We are honoured to partner with Shaina NC and Tisser Artisan Trust in this celebration of India’s handloom heritage. My heartfelt thanks to all participating artisans, women achievers, dignitaries, and guests for making this event a meaningful tribute to our culture, craftsmanship, and sustainability. Your presence and support amplify our shared mission to keep Indian handloom alive for generations to come.”
About NGMA Mumbai
The National Gallery of Modern Art, Mumbai is a premier cultural institution dedicated to preserving and promoting India’s artistic and textile legacy, fusing traditional techniques with contemporary creative expression.
About Tisser Artisan Trust
Tisser Artisan Trust empowers rural and marginalised artisans—especially women—through skill development, fair trade practices, and the promotion of authentic handcrafted products.
The event drew an eclectic mix of art lovers, saree enthusiasts, designers, policymakers, media professionals, and women achievers, earning accolades as a groundbreaking blend of style and social impact.
