Bhubaneswar: The 19th Toshali National Handicrafts Mela is all set to begin tomorrow at Janata Maidan, Bhubaneswar, offering a grand showcase of India’s rich handicraft and handloom heritage. The event, organized by the Odisha Handlooms, Textiles & Handicrafts Department, in collaboration with the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, will run until March 31, 2025. The mela is expected to draw an estimated 30 lakh visitors and generate sales worth ₹28 crore.
During a press conference held today, Pradeep Bal Samanta, Minister for Cooperation, Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts, emphasized that the mela will serve as a significant platform for artisans and weavers from across India to exhibit their handcrafted goods.
The “Shilpa Srujani” Theme Pavilion will be one of the main attractions, showcasing creativity and craftsmanship, covering an area of 2,500 sq. ft. Over 700 artisans and weavers from various parts of India will participate in the mela, with more than 650 stalls showcasing a diverse range of traditional and contemporary handicrafts.
This year’s edition will feature 150 artisans sponsored by the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) under the National Handicrafts Fair Scheme and 50 weavers supported by the Development Commissioner (Handlooms). In addition, 250 artisans and 110 weavers from Odisha will also be participating in the event, with apex handicraft corporations from other states displaying their regional crafts.
A food court will be set up, offering 35 stalls serving a variety of multi-cuisine food, including traditional Odia dishes. Visitors will be able to enjoy an array of culinary delights while exploring the rich culture of Odisha.
Cultural performances will take place every evening from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM. The performances will feature renowned artists and troupes from across India and will be organized in collaboration with the Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi and the Department of Culture, Odisha. A fashion show will also be held, showcasing handloom and handicraft products of Odisha, adding a creative flair to the event.
In line with the Accessible, Inclusive, and Sustainable (AIS) theme, the mela will ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for all. Special provisions have been made for differently-abled visitors and senior citizens, including help desks, wheelchairs, and dedicated toilets. A mother and baby care room will also be available for families.
The event will offer free accommodation and transportation for women exhibitors to support their participation. To ensure a smooth experience for all attendees, fire brigade services, security, civil defense teams, first aid services, ambulances, drinking water facilities, toilets, and ATM counters will be available on-site.
The Toshali National Handicrafts Mela has become an important event for promoting the craftsmanship of artisans and weavers, providing them a unique platform to connect with buyers and the wider public. With this year’s focus on boosting the handicrafts and handloom sector, the event will further cement Odisha’s role in preserving and promoting India’s traditional arts.