On August 15, 2025, India will celebrate its 79th Independence Day. This year, guests invited to the “At Home” gathering at Rashtrapati Bhavan will receive a special ceremonial kit. The National Institute of Design (NID) in Ahmedabad designed this kit to honour the artistic and cultural heritage of Eastern India. The kit features traditional crafts from the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal.
Each item in the kit has been carefully chosen to showcase the region’s rich craft traditions. For example, there is a Sikki grass box from Bihar. This beautiful box is made by rural women artisans using golden-hued grass. It is a craft that has been preserved for generations. The kit also includes a bamboo photo frame from Jharkhand, designed to look like a symbolic door. This frame features vivid Madhubani art, known for its intricate patterns and bright colours.
In addition to these items, the kit features a hand block-printed Tussar silk stole. This stole showcases regional motifs such as fish, lotus, and spring, all rendered in a sophisticated tricolour palette. Together, these handcrafted pieces represent the living heritage and creative expression of Bharat.
The entire design and production of the invitation kit were managed by NID Bengaluru, with support from NID Ahmedabad. Faculty members, staff, students, and many artisans from different states collaborated on this project. This initiative highlights the importance of traditional crafts in India and showcases how design can bridge the gap between heritage and modernity.
NID has a long history of promoting design education and craftsmanship in India. Established in 1961, it is regarded as the country’s leading design institution. NID has played a vital role in shaping India’s design landscape, blending modern design thinking with traditional crafts. This approach has not only nurtured generations of designers but has also contributed significantly to India’s creative economy.
As we approach Independence Day, the NID-designed ceremonial kit stands as a testament to India’s rich cultural legacy. It reminds us of the importance of preserving our heritage while embracing the future. The collaboration between NID and various artisans showcases the power of creativity and the importance of community in celebrating India’s diversity.
The special kit for Independence Day is not just a collection of items; it is a celebration of Eastern India’s cultural richness. It reflects the spirit of unity and diversity that India embodies. As guests receive this kit at Rashtrapati Bhavan, they will take home a piece of India’s artistic soul, reminding them of the country’s vibrant history and traditions.