The office of the Crafts Council of Tamil Nadu is abuzz as the 11th edition of the annual Crafts Bazaar kicks off in the city today. Expect to find a clamour of colour, texture and medium in the form of rich textiles, handicrafts and home decor as 108 artisans vie for space (and possibly attention) at the six-day exhibition at Suguna Kalyana Mandapam. While the Bazaar does not seek to revive the dying handicrafts industry, it promises business avenues for the artisans to showcase their work. “The awareness about the industry is something that is an added bonus,” shares Lakshmi Ramachandran, conveyor and former chairperson of the Crafts Council of Tamil Nadu.
Stitch perfect
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Stocking up on a curated selection of textiles, expect to find ikat from Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, appliqué from Rajasthan, phulkari from Punjab and ajrak from Gujarat. “Besides the business prospects that these craft bazaars offer, a major reason to be part of the CCTN showcase is the feedback that we get from customers. This, in turn, contributes to the larger design revolution that is taking place in the country,” says artisan Sathendra Pal Singh, adding that phulkaris were originally made only for special and ceremonial occasions and not as everyday wear. A first-timer in the city, this Patiala-based entrepreneur brings a range of salwar suits, dupattas, kurtis and saris featuring intricate floral embroidery on chiffon, georgette, silk-cotton and cotton. Also look for the demonstration class on phulkari to be conducted by the 52-year-old craftsman.
Stone age
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Dosa kal, kuzhiappam chetti, sieves, plates and other cookware represent the kalchatti craft of Namakkal. Crafted from maavu kal (soft stone), this handmade earthen ware has gained popularity among people who are looking for organic and exclusive products, says S Kandaswamy, an artisan from the region.
Apart from the traditional stoneware of the state, you can also choose from a wide range of glazed pottery-carafes, casseroles and coffee and tea pots-from the Kodaikanal-based Potter’s Shed at the market.
Matters of art
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Attempting to spotlight arts and crafts from across the country, the Bazaar will also display handcrafted accessories like inlay bangles, Tibetan thangka painting, crystal and glass home decor, sanji art, phad painting and more.
Rs 500 upwards. At Suguna Kalyana Mandapam. July 28-August 2. From 10.30 am onwards. Details: 9842210090
— Rebecca Vargese
rebecca@newindianexpress.com
@rebecca_vargese