Hyderabad: The All India Crafts Mela started at Shilparamam in Madhapur on Sunday, inaugurated by minister Tummala Nageswara Rao. Organised in collaboration with the Union textiles ministry and the National Jute Board, the mela features over 400 stalls showcasing handlooms, handicrafts, terracotta, cane, bamboo, jute products, and blue pottery.
Skilled artisans will hold live demonstrations at the mela, which will run till December 31.
Evening cultural programmes starting at 5.45 pm will feature folk and classical performances by artistes from India, Austin, Dubai, Richmond, and Atlanta. Of the 400 stalls, 100 are sponsored by the Union textiles ministry, 31 by the National Jute Board, and over 300 by Shilparamam.
Officials presenta at the inaugural included Shilparamam special officer G. Kishan Rao, director Arun Kumar of the Weavers Service Centre, and Shilparamam general manager Narsimhulu.
