Bhubaneswar: The much-awaited 16th Toshali National Crafts Mela 2022 will begin at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar on Monday.
A total of 390 artisans and weavers, including 150 from the state, are participating in the fair this year, which will remain open from 3 pm to 10 pm in view of the prevailing heat.
The theme pavilion will showcase the golden grass craft of Odisha. The wild grass (Vetiver zizanoids), known locally as ‘Kaincha’, is found in many riverside villages of Jagatasinghpur and Kendrapada districts. The inflorescent stick, which appears after the monsoon, is used for weaving. For generations, golden grass items like bowls, fans and mats have been used as utility items in many parts of the state. More and more city dwellers are now discovering the beauty of the products, which are eco-friendly and biodegradable.
“Artisans and weavers are facing difficulties in marketing their products amid the COVID pandemic. This fair will provide them with an opportunity to directly market their products and cushion the losses,” Minister of Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts, Padmini Dian told the media.
For the first time, the handicrafts and handloom corporations of other states are participating in the fair.
This apart, a food court having 30 stalls will offer Odia and cuisines of other states to the visitors. Special arrangement has been made for the smooth movement of differently-abled and elderly people, along with designated parking space and wheelchairs. A special baby care room has also been created for new mothers and infants.
More than 15 lakh people are expected to visit the fair this year. It’s mandatory for both visitors and exhibitors to wear masks and maintain social distance on the fairground. Last year, the fair saw a footfall of 14 lakh and did a business of Rs 12.3 crore. Traders and organisers of the event are expecting to create a business of around Rs 15 crore this year.
