Archive · 30 Dec 2025
Begampur Weavers Celebrate Unique Vishwakarma Puja
In a small place called Begampur, people celebrate a special festival called Akal Vishwakarma Puja.
Unlike other places, their god Vishwakarma is shown as a weaver working on a handloom, riding a horse.
The sound of the horse's hooves reminds them of the sound of the handloom.
This year, there are many beautiful decorations and lights.
The weavers are happy because the government helped them.
They now have better tools, materials, and more money for their work.
Many weavers who had stopped working are now back, and they make special saris that people love.
The saris are known by names like naksa and rangabati.
Begampur celebrates Akal Vishwakarma Puja uniquely with a weaver-themed idol.
The puja is marked by theme-based pandals and magical lights from Chandannagar.
Government intervention has revived the handloom industry, increasing handlooms from 100 to 600.
Weavers now produce up to seven saris per week with improved wages and materials.
Begampur handloom saris, like naksa and rangabati, are popular across India.
- Who
- Handloom weavers of Begampur, Hooghly district
- What
- Celebration of Akal Vishwakarma Puja and revival of handloom industry
- When
- Puja celebrated in December, immersion on 31 December
- Where
- Begampur, Hooghly district, West Bengal
- Why
- To seek blessings for the handloom cottage industry and celebrate their unique cultural tradition
- Location
- Begampur, Hooghly district
- Event
- Akal Vishwakarma Puja
- Unique Feature
- Vishwakarma idol as a working weaver on a horse
- Puja Dates
- December 31 (immersion)
- Handloom Count
- 600 active handlooms
- Sari Production
- Up to 7 saris per weaver per week
- Sari Types
- Naksa, Rangabati, Kata Naksha, Taat Kata
- Government Support
- Free raw materials and higher wages