More than 350 artisans from across 25 states in India displayed an array of handloom and handicraft products at the 11th Toshali National Crafts Mela that kicked off at Janata Maidan here on Thursday.
The fairground has been colorfully decorated with the famous applique work of Pipili and the theme pavilion made in the shape of the three chariots of Puri’s Jagannath temple is the main attraction.
Highlights of Toshali National Crafts Mela, 2017
- This year, the theme of the fair is Pipili appliqué work.
- As many as 100 kiosks are also selling fashion jewelry, shoes and tribal ornaments.
- A major highlight of the fair is the variety of home décor items that are available.
- A food section is also there for visitors to take a break and munch on mouthful delicacies.
- Several cultural programs have also been lined up for the evenings.
A kiosk has been set up at the center of the fair ground for artisans to demonstrate the intricacies of the art form to visitors.
A number of ATM counters have been installed at the fair to ensure easy cashless transaction for visitors. Moreover, a majority of sellers were seen with point-of-sale (POS) machines to ensure cashless transactions.
“I have brought block print fabrics and traditional Kalamkari garments for women. I don’t think the demonetisation will have any impact on my sales as I have a POS machine and people can easily pay me through card,” said Jyothi, a seller from Bangalore.
Yapam, an artisan from Arunachal Pradesh, who has brought a wide variety of decorative flowers, said, “The experience is the last one month after demonetisation has been dismal.”
The annual fair is hosted by the state handloom and handicrafts department. Handloom, handicrafts and textiles minister Snehangini Chhuria inaugurated the fair.
“This year only pure handloom and handicraft items will be displayed in the fair. The main aim of the fair is that visitors must appreciate the skills involved in creating the crafts,” she said.
Last year, the fair witnessed a footfall of around 15 lakh and did business of around Rs 15 crore. The fair concludes on December 27.
Courtesy: Times of India and Telegraph
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