Himachal’s Weavers and Dreamers Steal Hearts on Republic Day
The crisp morning air at Shimla’s historic Ridge was filled with more than just patriotic fervour today; it carried a palpable sense of local pride. The star of the State’s Republic Day parade wasn’t just a display, but a vibrant storybook on wheels, presented by the Department of Industries. It captivated the gathered crowds and dignitaries, not with mere spectacle, but with a heartfelt celebration of Himachal’s people and their crafts.
At its heart was a stunning testament to tradition and teamwork: the breathtaking exhibition of 4,023 handloom shawls, a feat that wove its way right into the Guinness World Records. This magnificent centrepiece was more than an achievement; it was a colourful shout-out to the State’s rich handloom heritage and the tireless skill of its artisan communities.
“Today’s tableau is a mirror to Himachal’s soul,” shared Industries Minister Shri Harshvardhan Chauhan, his voice reflecting the day’s emotion. “It shows how our deep-rooted traditions and modern innovations are intertwined. This historic weave and our other initiatives are threads in the larger fabric of our journey toward self-reliance.”
But the story didn’t end at the loom. The moving display also shone a spotlight on the bright minds behind the State’s top-performing startups, the impact of public welfare schemes, and key policy successes, drawing warm applause from onlookers.
Shri R.D. Nazeem, Additional Chief Secretary (Industries), connected the dots between the old and the new. “Our strategy is to honour our heritage while giving it a contemporary stage. The recent HIM MSME Fest 2026 proved just that—how the right support can lift local talent onto the global platform.”
Echoing the sentiment, Dr. Yunus, Commissioner of Industries, highlighted the festival’s human impact. “The MSME Fest was more than an event; it was a launchpad. It gave our local entrepreneurs, especially our women, a chance to shine, share ideas, and see their generations-old crafts get the recognition they deserve.”
The tableau vividly recounted how the fest wove together various strands of growth—from CEO meetings and district-specific product promotions to dedicated sessions for women entrepreneurs and startups—creating a fertile ground for new investments and dreams.
Shri Tilak Raj Sharma, Additional Director of Industries, painted a hopeful picture of the future. “By listening to industry leaders, promoting each district’s unique products, and backing our women entrepreneurs, we’re not just building an economy; we’re nurturing an ecosystem where every innovator can thrive.”
More than just a parade piece, the Industries Department’s presentation was a promise—a visual vow of Himachal Pradesh’s commitment to growth that includes everyone, values sustainability, and draws strength from both its glorious past and its innovative future. It was a celebration where every thread and every idea mattered.
