A Nation Woven Together: Regional Crafts from Five States Shine at CII Chandigarh Fair
Chandigarh, 27 October 2024: The vibrant colours, textures, and artistry of India’s diverse regions are on full display at CII Chandigarh Fair this year, as pavilions from Goa, Gujarat, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Kashmir showcase the nation’s rich tapestry of crafts and culture. Bringing together artisans with deep-rooted heritage and emerging entrepreneurs alike, the fair has created a unique platform for showcasing India’s cultural diversity and craftsmanship under one roof.
Each pavilion reflects the distinctive traditions of its state, offering visitors a journey through India’s regional arts and crafts. From the enamel Minakari jewellery of West Bengal to the eco-friendly footwear of Bihar, the fair stands as a celebration of India’s heritage and brings together artisans from all over the nation whose skill and dedication breathe life into these timeless art forms.
West Bengal: Enamel Art with Heritage
In the West Bengal pavilion, 59-year-old jewellery artisan Madhuwaran Mukherjee is a storyteller in metal and enamel. His handcrafted Minakari jewellery features vibrant motifs of fish and peacocks, each piece a tribute to the traditional art form he has honed over decades. Priced from Rs. 100 to Rs. 750, his jewellery embodies both affordability and intricate craftsmanship, attracting a diverse range of visitors. “Each design is a piece of my heritage,” Madhuwaran shares, underscoring his pride in preserving his family’s legacy while supporting local artisans.
Bihar: Sustainable Steps Forward
Vishvanath and Neeta Daas, a dynamic duo from Bihar, bring their eco-friendly footwear to the fair, each pair handcrafted using jute and recycled materials. With prices starting at Rs. 250, the footwear marries functionality with sustainability, embodying a commitment to both the environment and their artisan community. Vishvanath, who left a corporate career to pursue this business, acknowledges his wife Neeta as the creative force. “Together, we’re creating more than just footwear,” he says. “We’re crafting a sustainable future and uplifting uneducated artisans whose skills deserve recognition.”
Goa: Coconut and Coastal Charm
Goa’s pavilion showcases the artistry of Nikta Morajkar and Samiksha Mugaonkar, both artisans deeply connected to their heritage. Nikta, who transforms coconuts into artistic showpieces and vases, presents each piece as a blend of local materials and her contemporary design vision. Priced between Rs. 250 and Rs. 500, her creations reflect her dedication to sustainability. Beside her, Samiksha displays her coastal-inspired bracelets, keychains, and shell curtains, affordable pieces that evoke the essence of Goa’s beaches. “Through my art, I’m sharing a piece of Goa’s natural beauty with everyone,” Samiksha explains.
Kashmir: Timeless Artistry in Threads
In the Kashmir pavilion, 28-year-old Arabella carries forward her family’s legacy with an exceptional display of Kashmiri textiles, from hand-embroidered phirans to luxurious pashmina shawls. Mastering techniques like sozni, aari, and tilla, Arabella’s work is a brings us Kashmir’s tradition of exquisite detail. Shawls range from Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 8,000, while the finest pashminas, adorned with intricate embroidery, are priced from Rs. 10,000 up to Rs. 500,000. “This craft is more than a business,” she says. “It’s a cultural heritage passed down through generations that I’m proud to share with the world.”
For these artisans, the CII Chandigarh Fair is more than a commercial opportunity—it’s a chance to connect with a wider audience and keep their traditional crafts alive. The platform has drawn enthusiastic visitors, many of whom are experiencing these art forms for the first time. With representation from states like Uttar Pradesh, where artisans such as Sultan from Bulandshahar are showcasing intricate brass work, the CII Chandigarh Fair continues to celebrate India’s regional diversity, weaving a vibrant tapestry of cultures for all to experience.
