Khadi Fest 2024 continues to shine the spotlight on the textile heritage of Bangladesh
MWB Desk
While the fierce debate around heritage textiles and intellectual property continues to make headlines in the sub-continent, the Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh (FDCB) continues its beloved annual event of a Khadi Festival to promote the handloom and handwoven treasures of Bangladesh, and foster harmony within the fashion community in South Asia.
Khadi Fest 2024 was held on January 19-20 at Aloki Convention Centre in Tejgaon. Powered by BGMEA, with Maya as the title sponsor, and HSBC, Berger, Rupayan Group, and Buy Here Now as co-sponsors, the festival showcased the rich cultural heritage of Bangladesh, highlighting Khadi as the fabric of the future and a symbol of sustainable fashion.
The two-day event featured the fourth edition of their captivating runway show Khadi: The Future Fabric Show, where Bangladeshi designers unveiled future fashion trends in fabric and innovative products. The event also celebrated the skillful craftsmanship of artisans who intricately designed handmade Khadi outfits and other accessories.
The featured designers on Day 1 of the Future Fabric show were Jakia & Maysha, Abir & Tajbir, Faiza Ahmed, Tenzing Chakma, Ibalarihun, Afsana Ferdousi, Imam Hassan, Sadia Rashid Chowdhury, and Abhisek Roy. On Day 2, the stage was claimed by veteran designers Shaibal Saha, Charlee, Maheen Khan, Shah Rukh Amin, Kuhu, Nawshin Khair, Sayantan Sarkar, Lipi Khandker, and Chandana Dewan.
The Exhibition Zone featured innovative collections by 35 Bangladeshi exhibitors, alongside local artisans who came to the festival with handcrafted products and traditional artifacts. Visitors had the opportunity to explore a wide range of accessories made from Khadi, contributing to the industry’s progress towards sustainability in fashion.
“We are delighted to be part of a movement that embraces nature, beauty, and local culture. Khadi has been part of Bengal for centuries. It is sustainable and it speaks of people. Hoping festivals as such will bring awareness of our local, indigenous products and will promote artisans” – Milon Chisim, Owner, Tribal Crafts
In seminar sessions, industry experts shared valuable insights into the role of Khadi in sustainable practices and ethical fashion.
“I am delighted to witness the Khadi Fest 2024, an event that not only celebrates our rich cultural heritage but also underscores the potential of Khadi as a sustainable and eco-friendly fabric in the fashion industry. The collaboration between BGMEA and the Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh for this festival signifies our commitment to supporting initiatives that promote ethical and environmentally conscious practices” – Faruque Hassan, BGMEA president
Khadi Fest 2024 highlights how traditional fabrics like Khadi can be reimagined to meet contemporary needs, while preserving the environment and cultural heritage. This event sets a precedent for future fashion shows globally, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in the ever-evolving world of fashion.
For further updates, please follow the Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh (FDCB) on Facebook and Instagram.
