From the looms of Assam to the President’s wardrobe, Eri silk makes a mark

The handloom stall representing Assam and managed by artisan Barnali Pathak, from where President Droupadi Murmu purchased an Eri silk shawl in Vijayawada on Thursday. | Photo Credit: G.N. RAO In a momentous highlight for traditional Indian craftsmanship and rural entrepreneurship, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the SARAS Mela in Vijayawada, bringing national attention to the remarkable skills of artisans from across the country.After the official inauguration ceremony, the President walked through the exhibition grounds, stopping to interact directly with the artisans at their stalls.Ms. Murmu visited a vibrant handloom stall representing Assam, managed by local artisan Barnali Pathak. The stall offered a stunning display of Assam’s rich textile heritage, prominently featuring authentic Eri silk —widely celebrated as “Ahimsa silk” or non-violence silk because of its traditional, cruelty-free production process.Highlighting the unique collection to the President, Ms. Pathak presented two standout varieties of handspun and handwoven masterpieces.The first was a classic, unbleached natural off-white Eri shawl that showcased the fibre’s original ivory hue alongside intricate traditional border work. The second was a naturally dyed indigo blue Eri shawl featuring elaborate motifs.Demonstrating support for digital transactions and local artisans alike, Ms. Murmu personally purchased the naturally dyed indigo blue shawl for ₹4,500, completing the payment seamlessly via UPI.Expressing profound joy and emotion over the high-profile visit, Ms. Pathak noted that having the President visit their stall and purchase their craft is an unforgettable honour. She emphasised that such personal patronage and encouragement from the highest office in the country serve as a morale booster for the collective of women artisans who tirelessly work to keep traditional handspun crafts alive. Published - October 15, 2026 08:42 pm IST