The ongoing 18th Toshali National Crafts Mela in Bhubaneswar has become a vibrant showcase of Odisha’s rich heritage, with the theme pavilion titled “Tribal Crafts & Weaves of the State & GI Products” taking center stage. This unique pavilion features handicrafts and handloom products from Odisha, all of which have been granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags. The theme pavilion’s four stalls present an array of exquisite crafts, including Pattachitra, applique, and stone carving. It proudly displays renowned products such as Sambalpuri Bandha sarees, Habaspuri sarees, Khurda district’s Dhalapathara curtains, Gopalpur’s Tassar fabrics, Odisha Ikat sarees, Khandua Patta, Bomkai sarees, and various handloom items from Kotpad.
A standout feature at the pavilion is the cruelty-free ‘Karuna Silk,’ produced using a non-violent method, and the entire process of crafting this silk without harming Eri silkworms is demonstrated live. With over 600 stalls allotted this year, the Mela hosts more than 200 artisans and 140 weavers from Odisha, showcasing their exceptional craftsmanship. Additionally, 250 sculptors and 57 weavers from outside Odisha contribute to the diverse array of hand-made products on display. The event sees high demand for silk sarees from Bengaluru and Banaras, Pochampally sarees from Andhra Pradesh, woolen shawls from Kashmir, ironwork from Bastar in Chhattisgarh, and cane and bamboo products from Assam.
Adding to the cultural richness, Toshali Mela provides a platform for live demonstrations of various arts and crafts of Odisha. Thirty trainees from the State Institute for Development of Arts & Crafts (SIDAC) are captivating visitors with their talents through live demonstrations. The food court at Toshali is an added attraction, offering a delightful culinary experience. The Mela is open every day from 2:30 to 9:30 PM until December 26, providing ample opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the cultural and artistic heritage of Odisha.
The ongoing 18th Toshali National Crafts Mela in Bhubaneswar has become a vibrant showcase of Odisha’s rich heritage, with the theme pavilion titled “Tribal Crafts & Weaves of the State & GI Products” taking center stage. This unique pavilion features handicrafts and handloom products from Odisha, all of which have been granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags. The theme pavilion’s four stalls present an array of exquisite crafts, including Pattachitra, applique, and stone carving. It proudly displays renowned products such as Sambalpuri Bandha sarees, Habaspuri sarees, Khurda district’s Dhalapathara curtains, Gopalpur’s Tassar fabrics, Odisha Ikat sarees, Khandua Patta, Bomkai sarees, and various handloom items from Kotpad.
A standout feature at the pavilion is the cruelty-free ‘Karuna Silk,’ produced using a non-violent method, and the entire process of crafting this silk without harming Eri silkworms is demonstrated live. With over 600 stalls allotted this year, the Mela hosts more than 200 artisans and 140 weavers from Odisha, showcasing their exceptional craftsmanship. Additionally, 250 sculptors and 57 weavers from outside Odisha contribute to the diverse array of hand-made products on display. The event sees high demand for silk sarees from Bengaluru and Banaras, Pochampally sarees from Andhra Pradesh, woolen shawls from Kashmir, ironwork from Bastar in Chhattisgarh, and cane and bamboo products from Assam.
Adding to the cultural richness, Toshali Mela provides a platform for live demonstrations of various arts and crafts of Odisha. Thirty trainees from the State Institute for Development of Arts & Crafts (SIDAC) are captivating visitors with their talents through live demonstrations. The food court at Toshali is an added attraction, offering a delightful culinary experience. The Mela is open every day from 2:30 to 9:30 PM until December 26, providing ample opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the cultural and artistic heritage of Odisha.
