CRAFTY AFFAIR

Handicrafts ranging from Banarasi, Pathani, Patiala, Uppada, Kanjivaram, Bhagalpur silk, Handblock print, Kalamkari, Chanderi, Maheshwari, Khadi and various other varieties are up for grabs at the ongoing exhibition in the state capital.

Held at Qaiserbagh Baradari, the Weaves of India exhibition showcases tie and dye work, bandhej, block and dabu, batik, gadwal, pochampally, chikan work, kalamkari, kantha, kutch, kasuti and kashida varieties.

The exhibition has been organsied by Gramin Hastkala Vikas Samiti and has set up 80 stall, informs Jayesh Gupta, organizer. The visitors are offered a wide range from dupattas, suits, saaris and lehengas to suit pieces and ethnic purses.

The exhibition started on a low turnout but is slowly picking. “People generally come here, in the evening. The scorching heat outside, allows only a few to leave their houses, during the day” said Monu, a vendor from Jharkhand.

“We have new collections for the summer, which are light weight. They are all new design, handwoven materials. The business runs in my family” said Jamal, displaying his Banaras collection.

The ‘Baahubali’ design of a stall from Bangladesh has been attracting many. He claims to have sold 10 pieces already.

“I feel October to April, is the time when most exhibitions are held. It is wonderful to have the collection of so many states, under one roof. It saves time and energy, to buy from here for oneself and others. The best thing is that the quality is pure and the price reasonable” said Geeta Shukla, a buyer at the exhibition. The exhibition will conclude on April 23.

PIX: DHEERAJ DHAWAN/HT Exhibition at Baradari.