The Khadi Mahotsav 2025 has officially begun in Lucknow today, bringing a 10-day celebration of khadi, traditional arts, and swadeshi craftsmanship to the city. Held from 21 to 30 November at Central Sanskrit University, Gomti Nagar, the event aims to promote local artisans, strengthen rural industries, and support Uttar Pradesh’s growing ecosystem of micro and small enterprises.
The festival was inaugurated by Rakesh Sachan, Minister for MSME, Khadi & Village Industries, Sericulture and Handloom, who highlighted the state government’s continued efforts to empower artisans and expand markets for indigenous products.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, several initiatives — including ODOP (One District One Product), PM-FME and state MSME policies — have helped thousands of youth and entrepreneurs find new opportunities. Khadi Mahotsav 2025 reflects these achievements by bringing innovation, skill and rural enterprise to a wider audience.
This year, more than 160 exhibitors from across Uttar Pradesh have set up stalls featuring the state’s finest crafts — from Saharanpur’s wood carving, Bhadohi carpets, Amroha gamchas, Sitapur dari & towels, Varanasi silk sarees, and Pratapgarh amla products, to Lucknow’s royal honey, mitti kala, and several other swadeshi goods including leather products and food items. The diversity of the showcase highlights the rich artistic heritage and craftsmanship of the region.
Khadi Mahotsav 2025 also focuses on self-employment and micro-industry growth. Selected beneficiaries will receive equipment such as dona-making machines, popcorn machines, honey boxes, electric pottery wheels and pug mills, enabling small entrepreneurs to strengthen their businesses and expand production. Awards will also be presented to top-performing state-level units and artisans.
With its blend of culture, commerce and community empowerment, Khadi Mahotsav 2025 stands as a major platform for promoting Uttar Pradesh’s traditional industries and advancing the vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat.