The inaugural day of the World Crafts Forum 2024 was a resounding success, setting the stage for three days of insightful discussions, vibrant cultural showcases, and powerful networking within the global craft community. This was the 60th anniversary of the WCC AISBL, and the event took place at the National Craft Museum & Hastkala Academy in New Delhi, beginning the celebrations with a powerful message of collaboration, sustainability, and innovation in the crafts sector.
The day’s proceedings began with the highly anticipated Roundtable on Value of Crafts & Sustainability, where panellists and participants delved into the growing importance of sustainability in the crafts sector. Discussions explored how crafts contribute to sustainable economic growth and cultural preservation while unearthing the intangible values that crafts bring to communities and societies.
The major event of the day was the Inaugural Ceremony, which marked the World Crafts Forum 2024 officially. The ceremony marked six decades of this world council’s leadership in communicating and popularizing the global crafts movement. Chief Guest Shri Pabitra Margherita, Minister of State for Ministry of Textiles & External Affairs, Government of India, advocated eloquently about how the existence of crafts plays an integral role in the country’s culture as well as in the country’s economy.
“Crafts are not merely products; they are living stories of human ingenuity, tradition, and identity. As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the World Crafts Council, let us honor the artisans who unite the past and the future with their unmatched skill and passion. India, with its rich heritage of craftsmanship, stands proud as a beacon of creativity, sustainability, and innovation, leading the world toward a brighter, more connected future.” he said in his speech.
Rohit Kansal, IAS, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India concluded, “The World Crafts Forum will mark a turning point in how crafts are perceived, creating new opportunities for artisans and building a resilient crafts ecosystem.”
Smt. Amrit Raj, Development Commissioner for Handicrafts, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, remarked, “This event showcases India’s commitment to preserving and promoting its diverse crafts while fostering global collaboration.”
Esteemed Guests of Honour also shared their thoughts, with Mr. Saad Al-Qaddumi, President of WCC AISBL, saying that global cooperation can restore the art of crafts for generations to come.
“World Crafts Council’s constant endeavour is to re energise the craft movement around the world and the 60 years celebration of WCC in India along with the Development Commissioner Handicrafts sets the stage for a major leap forward for WCC’s flagship programs around the world,” added Mr. Al-Qaddumi.
Mr. Tim Curtis, Director of UNESCO South Asia, was speaking on the importance of intangible cultural heritage in sustainable development.
“UNESCO believes strongly that preserving traditional crafts is not only important for cultural identity but also for the future of sustainable economies. The World Crafts Forum is an important platform to explore these intersections,” said Mr. Curtis.
“The theme” crafts connecting the world is about leveraging crafts for a resurgent creative economy and for shaping a Sustainable Future for the planet and its people.” Dr. Darlie Koshy, Strategic Advisor
Somesh Singh, Steering Group Member and Craft Village Founder said “with the success of the previous International Craft weeks in Delhi, stage is set for taking crafts to the forefront to integrate and mainstream with the unprecedented strides of the country during Amrit kal along with other initiatives of the Govt of India and to place Indian Crafts on the centre stage of global crafts ecosystem being catalysed by the WCÇ AISBL
After the official opening, the Panel Discussion on Craft Fund: Establishing Craft Incubation and Entrepreneurship took place, discussing the urgent need for start-up support structures within the craft field of work. The panellists emphasized the role of innovation and entrepreneurship in ensuring that traditional crafts not only survive but thrive in the modern economy.
The day will conclude with a Cultural Evening, showcasing rich traditional performances. And opening of EPCH gallery of Best of Indian Crafts.
Part of the day’s activities, the forum featured special film screenings: Aadyam Handwoven Films highlighting rich craft traditions of Banaras, Bhadoi, Pochampally and others. They offer profound insights into craftsmanship, techniques, and stories behind some of India’s most celebrated weaves.
About the World Crafts Council AISBL
Founded on June 12, 1964, by Ms. Aileen Osborn Vanderbilt Webb, Ms. Margaret M. Patch, and Smt. Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, the World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC-International) is a global non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and advancing traditional crafts. With consultative status under UNESCO, the WCC has connected millions of artisans across five regions: Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and North America.
Headquartered in Kuwait (2021–2024), the WCC empowers artisans, celebrates cultural diversity, and supports sustainable development. Its initiatives include cultural exchanges, exhibitions, workshops, and global advocacy for craftsmanship. Commemorating its 60th anniversary in 2024, the WCC continues to strengthen the cultural and economic significance of crafts worldwide.
