Shilparamam to host National Handicrafts Fair from today

Hyderabad: The National Handicrafts Fair will be held from January 4 to 18 at Shilparamam in Madhapur by the Union ministry of textiles, with the participation of artisans from across the country for the first time, officials said.

The event will be inaugurated by state culture minister V. Srinivas Goud.

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Shilparamam general manager G. Anjaiah said, “For the first time, the handicrafts fair will be conducted on national level and 250 stalls have been sanctioned by the ministry of textiles, Government of India. Artisans from across India will be participating in the fair, along with 250 local artisans from the state, with a total of 500 stalls.”

The fair will have a variety of crafts, including woodcarving, handicrafts, terracotta, blue pottery and products made of cane, bamboo and jute, among others. It is aimed at promoting and encouraging artisans involved in handloom, handicrafts and jute industries, without the interference of middlemen.

A slew of cultural programmes, including music dance and folk arts, is also on the cards, while Sankranthi celebrations will also be held from January 13 to 15.

The fair will be open from 10.30 am to 8 pm.