‘Karigar Bazaar’: a celebration of India’s traditional crafts, artisan heritage

Karigar Bazaar – Delhi Edition 2026, described as the capital’s largest celebration of traditional crafts and artisan heritage, opened at Gate No. 13, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, bringing together more than 200 master artisans and National Award-winning craftspersons from across India. The 10-day exhibition foregrounds living craft traditions through direct engagement between artisans and urban audiences.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Vijay Ranjan Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of Security Printing & Minting Corporation of India Ltd. (SPMCIL), Government of India. He noted the importance of such platforms in strengthening market access for artisans while safeguarding India’s cultural legacy.

Among the highlights this year are intricate artworks created from pebbles of the Narmada River, sourced from the Indore region. Crafted by assembling naturally shaped and coloured stones into lifelike compositions, the works draw on the spiritual and cultural associations of the river, translating natural material into expressive visual narratives.

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Equally notable are wooden carvings from Tirupati, including large sculptures of Lord Balaji and Lord Ganesha valued at approximately Rs 10 lakh. The pieces demonstrate technical precision and devotional craftsmanship, reflecting temple traditions and the continuity of sacred woodwork practices.

In addition to curated displays, the Bazaar features live craft demonstrations and cultural performances, creating an immersive setting that allows visitors to observe processes and interact directly with artisans.

Karigar Bazaar will continue until March 1.

When: February 20 – March 1

Where: Gate No. 13, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi