The Shelly Shaurya Foundation marked the launch and discussion of The Silk Saga: The Insect That Ruled the World at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), New Delhi. The event was organised by the Kala Nidhi Division of IGNCA in collaboration with IDEA Communications, bringing together scholars, policymakers, and industry professionals for a discussion on the historical and economic significance of the silk industry.

The book, authored by Shelly Shaurya and Sanjay Kumar Srivastava and published by Penman Books, explores the history of silk, its global influence, and the role it has played in shaping trade, culture, and livelihoods across regions. During the session, Shelly Shaurya shared insights from the research behind the book, discussing the broader economic and policy dimensions of silk production and its relevance to India’s rural industries.

The event was graced by Shri Arun Kumar Mehta, IAS (Retd.), former Chief Secretary of Jammu & Kashmir, as the Chief Guest. Prof. (Dr.) Ramesh C. Gaur, Director and Head of Kala Nidhi & Dean (Administration) at IGNCA, presided over the session, while Shri Asit Gopal, IFS, Additional Secretary and Financial Advisor at the Ministry of Textiles, attended as the Guest of Honour.

Distinguished speakers at the event included Shelly Shaurya, author and research economist; Shri Asif Azmi, Director of IDEA Communications; and Shri Sanjay Kumar Srivastava, co-author of The Silk Saga and former IFS officer. The discussion offered perspectives on the historical Silk Route, the evolution of the silk sector, and the continuing relevance of silk and related industries in India’s economic landscape.

Held at the Umang Conference Hall at IGNCA on 8 February 2025, the gathering brought together bureaucrats, academics, industry professionals, and readers, fostering thoughtful dialogue on the cultural, historical, and economic importance of the silk sector. The session concluded with audience interaction and informal discussions over high tea.