Crafts Bazaar exhibition-cum-sale to start from Sep 8 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan

 GUWAHATI: A 'Crafts Bazaar', an Exhibition-cum-Sale is being set up in Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, from September 8 to 10 on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in New Delhi. The exhibition is being organized by the G20 Secretariat in coordination with the Ministry of Textiles and state and UT governments.

This Crafts Bazaar will showcase handicraft products from different parts of India, with a special focus on One District, One Product (ODOP), GI-tagged items, and products crafted by women and tribal artisans. Delegates and international media participating in the summit will have the opportunity to visit this craft bazaar and purchase locally sourced products. Around 30 states and UTs, as well as central agencies like Khadi Village & Industries Commission, TRIFED, and Saras Ajeevika, will be participating in the Crafts Bazaar. To exhibit the exceptional handicraft and handloom items from the North-East, a 'Focus North East' stall is being set up in coordination with the North-Eastern Handicrafts & Handloom Development Corporation (NEHHDC). Products from Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Nagaland will be showcased.

Handloom Weaving from Assam: The state of Assam is known for its handlooms, especially its natural fibre weaves done by local communities. From spinning the yarn to making the fabric, the whole process is done by hand using traditional wooden looms. Muga silk, Eri silk, Pat silk, and cotton are some of the popular weaves created here. One of the most significant contributions of Assam is the weaving of muga silk, a unique and golden-coloured silk exclusive to Assam. A wide range of exquisite products like mekhela chador, saris, shawls, stoles, home linen, and exclusive accessories are produced utilizing Assam's handloom weaving traditions.

Loin Loom Weaving from Nagaland: Also known as the backstrap loom, the loin loom from Nagaland is one of the oldest forms of weaving in the world. Weaving is the domain of women in Nagaland, and each tribe boasts specific designs on their shawls, jackets, and sarongs. Dramatic colour combinations, bold patterns, and striking minimalist geometric motifs mark loin loom weaving. Loin loom fabric has a special ribbed texture and is long-lasting. Most of the patterning in loin loom weaving is done in geometric designs, except for the warrior shawls of the Ao tribe, which have hand-painted central bands depicting tigers, bison, crossed spears, and roosters.

Kauna Craft from Manipur: Kauna, the soft, spongy grass, is unique to the state of Manipur. This is a pliable grass, characterised by its ability to be woven into multiple products. Kauna is water-resistant and has been used for centuries by the people of Manipur to make floor mats and cushions, as well as baskets for their use.

Cane and bamboo crafts from Meghalaya: Meghalaya is rich in bamboo and cane resources and boasts a history of using these materials for construction and daily items. Meghalaya is home to three major tribal communities, namely the Khasi, the Garo, and the Jaintia. These communities have remarkable skills in working with these natural materials and have developed some complex weaving and coiling techniques. Apart from the above, 30 other forms of crafts from across the country will be showcased in the crafts bazaar, stated a press release.

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