How Sheikh Hasina Made Jamdani Sarees Famous on the Global Stage

Bangladesh PM’s “Jamdani Diplomacy” turns traditional weave into a symbol of national heritage

For decades, Jamdani sarees have been a hallmark of Bengal’s rich textile tradition. But it was Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina who helped elevate this delicate handwoven art to the global spotlight — using Jamdani as a soft power tool in diplomacy.

Weaving Culture Into Diplomacy

• Hasina’s consistent choice to wear Jamdani at high-profile diplomatic events has been termed “Jamdani diplomacy.”
• During summit meetings, state visits, and climate conferences, her sarees sparked conversations not just about fashion but about Bangladesh’s artistic heritage. For example:
  • During a 2014 visit by Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Hasina gifted her a Jamdani saree, exchanging more than just pleats — it was a gesture of shared culture.
  • At the NAM Summit in Baku (2019) and other global forums, she wore Jamdani, sending a message of national pride.
  • During the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow (2021), Hasina appeared in a blue-grey Jamdani saree that caught attention among world leaders.
  • At the G20 Summit (2023), she wore a lilac Dhakai Jamdani, underlining Bangladesh’s weaving legacy on a truly global stage.

The Rich History Behind the Fabric

• Jamdani weaving dates back centuries in Bengal. The name comes from Persian, meaning “flower vase,” a reference to the floral motifs woven into the fabric.
• The technique involves transparent weaving, where motifs are woven onto muslin without any machine – a time-consuming art that requires highly skilled artisans.
• The craft is deeply rooted in Dhaka’s history and remains one of the most labour-intensive handloom traditions in the world.

Impact: More Than Just Sarees

• Hasina’s fashion choices have helped boost international awareness of Jamdani, increasing global demand.
• This visibility supported important economic benefits for weavers — exports went up, and more programs were launched to protect and promote the tradition.
• Her advocacy also encouraged geographical-indication (GI) protection for Jamdani, helping preserve its authenticity.
• The effort also aligns with Bangladesh’s push to brand Jamdani internationally. Industries officials are now working on training, export support, and global packaging.

Political Symbolism & Controversy

• In 2024, protestors stormed Hasina’s official residence in Dhaka — and one of the most shocking acts was looting her Jamdani sarees.
• Experts note that Hasina’s use of Jamdani goes beyond fashion — it’s a deliberate soft power strategy, using cultural symbols to assert Bangladesh’s identity.