KIIT Hosts Kaanchi-2025: A Tribute to Craftsmanship and Cultural Identity

Kaanchi-2025 Showcases Youth Innovation in Handloom Fashion at KIIT

To mark the 11th National Handloom Day on 7 August 2025, the KIIT Student Activity Centre (KSAC) organised Kaanchi-2025 with great enthusiasm, presenting a dynamic tribute to India’s handloom legacy. Hosted by Kzarshion, the official Fashion Society of KSAC, the event brought together students, faculty, fashion leaders, and dignitaries in a spirited celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Padma Shri Adwaita Gadanayak, Director-General of KIIT Art Academy; Prof. Jnyana Ranjan Mohanty, Registrar of KIIT-DU; Prof. Himanshu Sekhar Khatua, Director-General of KSFT, KSFMS, and KSMC; and Prof. Krishna Chakravarty, Dean of KSAC. Their presence underscored the institutional commitment to cultural preservation and creative expression.

Adding an international dimension, delegates from the City University of New York attended as special guests. They commended the event’s vibrant portrayal of Indian fashion and culture, describing it as an enriching experience that reflected the artistic spirit of Indian youth. A key highlight of the evening was the fashion show competition, which saw enthusiastic participation from 16 student teams representing colleges across Odisha. Each team showcased original collections that blended traditional handloom textiles with contemporary design, capturing the diversity and depth of India’s textile heritage. The competition was adjudicated by an eminent panel comprising Ms. Zubina Ali, Chairperson of CII IWN and CEO of Juby’s Fashion House, and Ms. Lopamudra Beuria, a noted designer and entrepreneur.

The evening also featured a musical performance by Korus, KSAC’s music society, which captivated the audience with a soulful yet energetic set that fused classical influences with modern rhythms. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by the student coordinator and a vibrant performance by the Kzarshion Central Team, reinforcing the event’s celebratory spirit.Kaanchi-2025 stood as a vivid testament to India’s handloom heritage, youth creativity, and the power of cultural collaboration.

Editor’s Note:

Kaanchi-2025, organised by the KIIT Student Activity Centre, was a meaningful celebration of India’s handloom heritage. The event brought together students, faculty, and fashion leaders to honour the craftsmanship and cultural richness of traditional textiles. It was encouraging to see young designers creatively blend handloom fabrics with modern styles, showing respect for tradition while embracing innovation. The presence of esteemed guests and international delegates added depth to the occasion, highlighting the global relevance of India’s artistic legacy. The fashion show competition and musical performances reflected the energy and talent of KIIT’s student community. Each segment of the event was thoughtfully planned and executed, creating an atmosphere of pride and collaboration.

Skoobuzz asserts that events like Kaanchi-2025 play an important role in promoting cultural awareness and encouraging creative expression among youth. They also help strengthen institutional ties with national and international partners through shared appreciation of heritage and art.