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Himachali Artisans Weave Tradition Into Modernity, Keeping Heritage Alive

In the times we live in, dominated by mass production and advanced machinery, Himachali artisans like Bharat Bhushan, Rigzian Chhodin, and Sonam Lama Tamang are safeguarding their rich cultural heritage through handcrafted goods. From eco-friendly woollens and sea buckthorn products to intricate Thangka paintings, their work reflects a delicate balance between preserving age-old techniques and adapting to contemporary demands. Amidst rising competition from cheaper, machine-made alternatives, limited market reach, and the struggle to source sustainable raw materials, these artisans face immense challenges. Yet, their resilience shines through as they innovate within tradition, keeping their crafts alive and relevant in an ever-changing world.

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Him Mahotsav at Dilli Haat INA Market in Delhi: 3
Photo: Suresh K Pandey/Outlook

Life-size models adorned in the vibrant traditional attire of Himachal Pradesh at Dilli Haat in New Delhi.

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Him Mahotsav at Dilli Haat INA Market in Delhi: 2
Photo: Suresh K Pandey/Outlook

National Award-winning craftsman Uttam displays his collection of handwoven shawls and textiles at Dilli Haat in New Delhi.

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Him Mahotsav at Dilli Haat INA Market in Delhi: 4
Photo: Suresh K Pandey/Outlook

At his Dilli Haat stall, Ankit Kumar, a merchant navy officer and fourth-generation tea planter, markets his family's collection of Himachal Pradesh teas. He promotes the twelve traditional tea varieties to a new generation, preserving his family's legacy amidst environmental challenges in New Delhi.

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Him Mahotsav at Dilli Haat INA Market in Delhi: 5
Photo: Suresh K Pandey/Outlook

Bharat Bhushan of Kullvi Whims displays handwoven products crafted from desi wool, dyed using organic methods, with the aim of keeping alive the age-old artisanal craft of Himachal.at Dilli Haat in New Delhi.

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Him Mahotsav at Dilli Haat INA Market in Delhi: 6
Photo: Suresh K Pandey/Outlook

Design consultant Akshita Sharma, curator of HimCraft at Dilli Haat, shows traditional Himachali designs at Dilli Haat in New Delhi.

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Him Mahotsav at Dilli Haat INA Market in Delhi: 7
Photo: Suresh K Pandey/Outlook

The welcoming entrance to the Himachali section at Dilli Haat displays the traditional handicrafts representing the region's artistic heritage." in New Delhi.

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Him Mahotsav at Dilli Haat INA Market in Delhi: 8
Photo: Suresh K Pandey/Outlook

A depiction of the Fagli dance, a traditional celebration of spring in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu Valley and Kinnaur district. The wooden masks honor local deities at Dilli Haat in New Delhi.

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Him Mahotsav at Dilli Haat INA Market in Delhi: 9
Photo: Suresh K Pandey/Outlook

Parvati from the Charkha Swayam Sahayata Shmooh Kinnaur weaves at the live handloom demonstration at the 'Charkha' exhibit, featuring a traditional weaving loom in the process of making a shawl at Dilli Haat in New Delhi.

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Him Mahotsav at Dilli Haat INA Market in Delhi: 10
Photo: Suresh K Pandey/Outlook

Rigzian Chhdoin, 55, runs a small business called Kang La Basket, which makes products from the local Seabuckthorn berry at Dilli Haat in New Delhi.

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Him Mahotsav at Dilli Haat INA Market in Delhi: 11
Photo: Suresh K Pandey/Outlook

The creative roller display celebrates the state's Buddhist heritage, featuring the Western Tragopan (state bird) and Pink Rhododendron (state flower) at Dilli Haat in New Delhi.

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Him Mahotsav at Dilli Haat INA Market in Delhi: 1
Photo: Suresh K Pandey/Outlook

Walls covered with Thangka paints Sonam Lama Tamang paints the detailed mandala designs combining religious imagery at Dilli Haat in New Delhi.

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