The Handloom Expo commenced in Calcutta in 1982. Since then, this mega event is being held at the Calcutta Maidan, opposite Rabindra Sadan in every alternate year.

This fair is organized under the patronage of the State Government ably supported by the Central Government. The duration of the fair is 21 days. Every year, there is a huge turnout of about 5 lacs of visitors in the fair.

The participants (about 130) take utmost care to display their handloom products such as bed-sheet, bed-cover, saree etc. and sell them. These participants can be classified into three groups viz. state level upper society, primary society and national level organization.

The fair has become very popular in Calcutta. The Calcuttans get the opportunity to get more acquainted with a vast range of fabulous handloom products, which are also available at affordable prices. Moreover, the organizations from remote parts of the country, also get a chance to know the tastes and preferences of the Calcuttans better.