A peek into the world of handicraft

Intricate Works

Over 100 artisans from across the country are showcasing prominent handcrafted creations during this month long festival.

As one moves through this colourful world of Indian handicrafts, many intricate paintings and sculptures catch the eye. Bronze icons, brass oil lamps, Tanjore paintings, wood carvings, fashion jewellery, Rajasthan bedsheets and many handcrafted and handwoven items are displayed and can be purchased at reasonable prices.

A stall by Radha from Madurai offers vibrant Madhurai Sungadi saris, which are made of tie-and-dye paint, and wax. The stall next to that is full of Gujarat’s traditional Kalamkari Kurthis.

They have also put on sale  colourful skirts with vegetable block-printing, which are attractive as well as trendy. Crystal idols, displayed by Yadram from Uttar Pradesh, form a prominent part of the mela. He has hand-made crystal glass products consisting  idols of Ganesh, Krishna, Buddha, Sai Baba and many other decorative objects.

Also displayed at his stall are sculptures made using the marble inlay work or Pachchekari work in which precious and semi-precious stones are set on varied type of marbles. This art is seen on the walls of Taj Mahal.

 “Customers first enquire about the price but they do not take into consideration the amount of hard work we put into the work. If they support us wholeheartedly, we will be inspired to experiment new things. Ironically, we artistes never get proper recognition,” says Yadram.

His products are priced between Rs 40 and Rs 2,000. Also striking is the Banarasi sari shop by Imtiaz Ahmed. Hand-embroidered saris using semi-precious stones and pure zari give a first-hand experience of the tradition and legacy of Benarasi saris.

Also on display at the mela are Kancheepuram silk saris, Moradabad brassware, carpets, leather items, Jaipur paintings, Channapattana lacquereware and incense and perfumery. The expo will be on till July 25.