In a historic first, Assam’s handloom and handicraft traditions curated and coordinated from Guwahati took centre stage at the President’s ‘At Home’ reception hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday, January 27.
The showcase was curated by the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation, headquartered in Guwahati, and brought together collective representations from all eight Northeastern states, highlighting the region’s cultural identity, craftsmanship and agro-horticultural wealth.
Assam’s handlooms and Northeast handicrafts, curated by Guwahati-based NEHHDC, were showcased for the first time at the President’s ‘At Home’ reception on January 27. The display highlighted traditional crafts, GI-tagged produce and sustainable art forms, placing Guwahati at the heart of the Northeast’s cultural presentation in New Delhi.
Assam’s Presence, Guwahati’s Role
Officials said Guwahati played a central coordinating role in conceptualising and executing the Northeast pavilion. Iconic Assamese elements such as the Brass Xorai and Gamusa were prominently displayed, symbolising respect, hospitality and identity values deeply rooted in Assam’s cultural ethos.
Craft installations representing other Northeastern states complemented Assam’s display, reinforcing Guwahati’s position as the cultural and institutional gateway of the Northeast.
Craft, Sustainability and Symbolism
Among the highlights were:
- Cane sculptures of the one-horned rhinoceros and elephant
- Naga kitchen elements, including the Signtha plate and dry corn husks
- Longpi Black Pottery from Manipur and Kauna grass baskets showcasing indigenous sustainability
A major attraction was the ‘Boat Fruit Basket’, featuring GI-tagged produce such as Assam’s Kaji Nemu, Khasi Mandarin, Queen Pineapple and Naga King Chilli, underscoring the region’s agro-horticultural diversity.
A cane installation creatively depicted the Indian Tricolour using organic materials, blending patriotism with environmental consciousness.
Design and Cultural Performances
Dining tables featured octagonal tablemats symbolising unity among the eight Northeastern states, with weaving motifs reflecting the region’s textile heritage. Traditional cultural performances from across the Northeast added vibrancy, offering guests a glimpse into living traditions preserved and promoted through institutions based in Guwahati.
Global Audience, National Recognition
The reception was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and Antonio Costa, President of the European Council—chief guests of the 2026 Republic Day parade.
Officials said the global audience reinforced the importance of platforms like Guwahati-based NEHHDC in taking Assam and Northeast craftsmanship to the world stage.
Why This Matters for Guwahati
The showcase is being seen as a milestone for Guwahati’s creative ecosystem, strengthening:
- Market visibility for Assam artisans
- Institutional recognition of Guwahati as the Northeast’s craft hub
- Opportunities for global cultural and trade exchanges
What Happens Next
NEHHDC officials indicated that similar curated showcases are planned in national and international forums, with Guwahati continuing to lead efforts to position Northeast India’s crafts, handlooms and sustainable traditions on larger platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Who curated the Northeast crafts showcased at the President’s ‘At Home’?
The display was curated by the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), based in Guwahati.
Q2. Which Assam symbols were highlighted at the event?
Assamese symbols such as the Brass Xorai, Gamusa, and GI-tagged Kaji Nemu were prominently featured.
