Dastkari Haat Samiti’s 39th craft bazaar underway at Dilli Haat

The Dastkari Haat Samiti has launched its 39th annual craft bazaar to celebrate and preserve India’s rich craft heritage while empowering artisans. The event, which began on December 16, will run until December 31, at Dilli Haat, INA, offering a vibrant platform for cultural exchange and craftsmanship.

With a legacy spanning 39 years, the Dastkari Haat Samiti continues to champion the cause of artisans across India. Over the years, it has conducted over 150 craft bazaars, spearheaded innovative interventions, and established significant milestones such as the reintroduction of calligraphy into crafts and the extensive online documentation of 52 traditional crafts for the Google Arts & Culture platform.

The bazaar features 170 stalls, showcasing an extensive range of crafts, including textiles, hand block prints, embroidery, grass and bamboo crafts, jewellery, ceramics, terracotta, and traditional art forms like Gond, Pattachitra, and Kalighat paintings. Artisans from 22 states, including 65 national and state awardees, are participating in the event, offering 45 live demonstrations.

Visitors can witness live showcases of exquisite skills such as Sanjhi Craft from Uttar Pradesh, Madhubani Painting from Bihar, and Gond Painting from Madhya Pradesh, among others. Unique crafts like Leaf Printing from Gujarat, Jute Products from Maharashtra, and Lehariya from Rajasthan are also on display, reflecting the diverse heritage of Indian craftsmanship.

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Adding a vibrant touch to the bazaar are cultural performances, including Rajasthani folk music, Kalbelia dance from Barmer, and Chaau dance from West Bengal, creating an immersive cultural experience for visitors. This year also introduces the groundbreaking Mini Art Book Workshop, an initiative blending traditional folk art with modern design. Spearheaded by six master artists, the workshop allows visitors to learn bookbinding techniques and create their own art pages.

When: Until December 16, 2024; 11.00 AM to 8.00 PM;

Where: Dilli Haat, INA, New Delhi

Entry Fee: Rs 30