'Kaarigari': A Grand Celebration of Indian Handicrafts and Handlooms
A grand celebration of Indian handicrafts and handlooms, named 'Kaarigari,' is currently underway at the National Centre for Heritage Textiles (Handloom Haat) in Janpath, New Delhi. Organized jointly by MSME (Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises) and Amrapali, this exhibition showcases the rich traditions of Indian arts and crafts. The exhibition, which began on January 27th and will run until February 4th, features a unique collection of handcrafted products from various regions of India, reflecting the creativity, hard work, and cultural heritage of artisans. The primary objective of this event is to provide Indian artisans with a global platform and to widely promote their products.
The ‘Kaarigari’ exhibition is being organized by the Amrapali Handloom & Handicraft Multi-State Cooperative Society Limited, with support from the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) under its Procurement and Marketing Support (PMS) scheme.
The exhibition was formally inaugurated on Tuesday with the lighting of lamps, with the presence of several dignitaries, including Dr. R.K. Bharti, Joint Director of MSME; Sunil Kumar, Assistant Director of MSME; A.K. Pradhan, Additional Secretary of the Union Home Ministry; and Arunima, founder of Sanyam Samvad Foundation. The chief guests praised the uniqueness of Indian handicrafts and their cultural significance. Archana Singh, President of the organizing institution, welcomed the guests and highlighted the purpose and importance of the event.
During his address, Dr. R.K. Bharti, Joint Director of MSME, stated, "The Indian handicrafts and handloom industry is a vibrant symbol of our cultural heritage. It not only serves as a source of livelihood for millions of artisans but is also an important part of our culture and traditions. Such events play a crucial role in energizing this industry." He further added, "Indian handicrafts are renowned worldwide for their unique craftsmanship and excellent quality. Events like 'Kaarigari' not only boost the morale of artisans but also provide them with opportunities to reach international markets." Dr. Bharti emphasized that “This exhibition is a significant step towards encouraging small and artisan industries in the country. The products displayed here not only preserve our cultural heritage but also symbolize the economic empowerment of local entrepreneurs and women. Such events provide a larger platform for small businesses, which will generate new employment opportunities and promote indigenous products.”
Artisans from various states across the country, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Odisha, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Andhra Pradesh, are showcasing their creations at the exhibition. The exhibition features a diverse range of prominent handicraft products, such as Banarasi sarees, Kanchipuram silk, Kashmiri Pashmina shawls, block prints from Rajasthan, and Chanderi textiles from Madhya Pradesh. There are a total of 75 stalls set up at the exhibition. The exhibition is free and open to the public daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM until February 4, 2025. In addition to the exhibition, cultural programs are held daily, showcasing India's diversity and rich cultural heritage. Swings for children and stalls offering traditional foods are also special attractions. Small-scale entrepreneurs, artists, weavers, and producers of agro-based products from all over the country are participating in this exhibition. It features organic products, papads, pickles, and 'badi' (a special type of lentil nuggets) made by women's groups, along with beautiful hand-made handicrafts and handloom items for exhibition-cum-sale.
Archana Singh, President of Amrapali Handloom & Handicraft Multi-State Cooperative Society Limited, mentioned that the exhibition has been organized to promote and brand products at fair prices, offering something special for Delhi residents. She emphasized that the goal is to encourage small industries in the country and provide them with a marketing platform to expand their businesses and create more employment opportunities.
The ‘Kaarigari’ exhibition serves as a vibrant reflection of the unique heritage of Indian handicrafts and handlooms, and it is an important endeavor to promote artisans and help them gain international recognition.
The chief guests observed the exhibition and interacted with the artisans. The guests greatly praised the artisans' creations and encouraged them. The ‘Kaarigari’ exhibition is a vivid reflection of the pride of the Indian handicrafts and handlooms industry. It not only provides a platform for artisans but also strives to bring the audience closer to Indian art and culture. The organizers and artisans expressed their gratitude to all the visitors and the media for making this event a success.