Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh inaugurated The Kunj, a flagship retail and cultural destination dedicated to showcasing the rich heritage of Indian handicrafts and handlooms, at Plot No. 8, Nelson Mandela Marg, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.
Conceived and developed by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), The Kunj is a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at empowering artisans, expanding market access, and reimagining the craft sector through a design-led and experiential approach. The inaugural ceremony was also graced by Pabitra Margherita, Minister of State for External Affairs & Textiles, along with senior officials of the Ministry including the Secretary (Textiles), Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Development Commissioner (Handlooms), and leading dignitaries from the sector.
From Gaon to Global
Speaking at the event, Union Minister Giriraj Singh emphasized that The Kunj is India’s first such large-scale initiative dedicated solely to promoting crafts. He described it as being aligned with the Central Government’s vision to take artisans “from gaon to global.”
The Minister expressed confidence that the success of The Kunj would serve as a model for similar initiatives across the country. He further noted that this project would reaffirm India’s position as a global hub for traditional knowledge systems and handmade excellence, while offering artisans dignified opportunities for growth.
A Comprehensive Walkthrough
Following the inauguration, the Minister undertook a detailed walkthrough of The Kunj complex, interacting with master artisans, brand founders, curators, and participating retailers.
Spread across two levels, the complex houses curated retail showrooms, a live craft demonstration zone, interactive workshops, a culinary experience area, and an immersive exhibition space. Each element of the destination has been designed to offer visitors a holistic cultural experience, blending tradition with modern retail practices.
The inaugural phase also marks the beginning of a three-month celebration, featuring live craft demonstrations, artisan-led workshops, exhibitions, and cultural showcases to engage both domestic and international audiences.
Applauding the Efforts
The Union Minister commended the efforts of the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) and all associated teams, including conceptual planners, marketing professionals, and design curators.
He noted that The Kunj reflects a seamless integration of cultural heritage, creative enterprise, and experiential engagement. According to him, the initiative not only provides a modern retail platform for artisans but also redefines public interaction with India’s handcrafted legacy.
Alongside this landmark launch, Giriraj Singh also inaugurated the newly constructed Shilp Bhawan, the Office of the DC (Handicrafts), which will serve as a key administrative hub for implementing artisan-focused policies and schemes.
Empowering Artisans, Enriching Legacy
The Kunj represents more than just a marketplace—it is a vision for artisan empowerment. By creating a platform where traditional crafts are celebrated and made accessible, the initiative bridges the gap between rural artisans and urban consumers.
It also reimagines India’s craft sector as an immersive cultural economy, positioning crafts not only as products but as living experiences. Visitors to The Kunj can witness first-hand the artistry behind each piece, gain insights into the heritage of different craft forms, and connect directly with artisans.
Setting New Benchmarks
The Minister extended his congratulations to all contributors—ranging from Ministry officials to infrastructure partners, creative collaborators, and artisan communities—for bringing The Kunj to life.
He reiterated that this flagship initiative sets a benchmark in the way crafts are presented, promoted, and valued in India. By merging cultural heritage with contemporary retail and design practices, The Kunj aims to ensure that artisans are not left behind in the country’s growth journey.
With its innovative concept, dignified opportunities for artisans, and immersive experiences for visitors, The Kunj is set to become a model cultural and retail hub and a proud symbol of India’s handmade excellence.
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