Colourful start to Bengaluru Habba

Craftsmen to share the origin and history of their craft demonstrations

Artistes from Manipur enthralled the audience by dancing on a slow rhythmic beat. People watched in awe when Manipuri bravadoes displayed their martial art skills with daggers and swords. Before their act, a Dollu Kunitha performance was performed by a troupe from Ramanagara that made the audience remain glued to their seats.

Products from various states are on display in around 120 stalls during the Habba. The Bengaluru Habba, which will continue till December 20 will see diverse forms of art, crafts, dance, music, theatre and film.

The various tribal and folk arts forms on display this year are lac, bead and wood jewellery, Lucknowi kurtas, zari Joothis, Kolhapur footwear, sarees in the Chanderi, Paithani, Bhagalpur, Kollegal and Rajasthan styles, Bastar metal art, Dhokra, marble, woodwork, Saharanpur furniture, Rajasthan miniature and marble paintings.

 One of the highlights of the mela this year is the crafts demonstration where craftsmen will share the origin and history of the craft and demonstrate their work. This year will also feature designers who have integrated traditional art into their works with the help of indigenous crafts people.

Jazz concert

The Gerard Machado Network featuring Yogendra ‘Tillu’ Hule, Karan Joseph and K N Prakash performed the maiden jazz concert at the Habba. Bangalore-based Gerard is one of India’s most accomplished Jazz guitarists and has represented India at several international Jazz festivals.