Bhubaneswar: The theme pavilion “Tribal Crafts & Weaves of the State & GI Products” at the ongoing 18th Toshali National Crafts Mela’ in Bhubaneswar features handicrafts and handlooms products of Odisha which have been credited with GI tag.
The four stalls at the theme pavilion showcase Pattachitra, applique and stone carving. It includes Sambalpuri Bandha sarees, Habaspuri sarees, Khurda district’s Dhalapathara curtains, Gopalpur’s Tassar fabrics, Odisha Ikat sarees, Khandua Patta, Bomkai sarees and various handloom products of Kotpad.
The cruelty-free ‘Karuna Silk’ produced with the non-violent method has become a unique attraction at the theme pavilion. The entire process of making this silk killing the Eri silkworms is being demonstrated live at the pavilion.
“Many products developed in Odisha have been accorded the GI certification. A special pavilion has been set up at the Toshali Mela this year to inform people about 9 handloom priducts that have been given GI tag. Here, people can see the flawless craftsmanship of Odisha weavers. Moreover, sculptors and artisans from different states including Odisha are participating in the Toshali Mela,” said Shovan Krishna Sahu, Director of Textiles and Handlooms.
“People visiting the Toshali Mela are appreciating various handloom and handicraft products as well as diverse products from other states. It has become a good platform for weavers, artisans and craftsmen to showcase and sell their products,” said Pranati Chhotray, Director of Handicrafts.
This year, more than 600 stalls have been allotted in the Mela. More than 200 artisans and over 140 weavers from Odisha are participating as exhibitors. Similarly, 250 sculptors and 57 weavers from outside Odisha have displayed their hand-made products.
Silk sarees from Bengaluru and Banaras, Pochampally sarees from Andhra Pradesh, Woolen shawls from Kashmir, Iron work from Bastar of Chhattisgarh & cane and bamboo products from Assam are in good demand.
Live demo of various arts and crafts of Odisha are being performed at Toshali Mela. Thirty trainees of the State Institute for Development of Arts & Crafts (SIDAC) are showcasing their talents through live demonstration in front of the visitors at this Mela.
The food court at Toshali is an added attraction. Toshali Mela remains open every day from 2.30 to 9.30 PM till December 26.
