The recent inauguration of a Hunar Haat in Mumbai by the Governor of Maharashtra has brought attention to an important aspect of India’s cultural heritage. Hunar Haat, an exhibition showcasing handicraft and traditional products created by artisans from minority communities, serves as a platform for preserving and promoting the rich tradition of arts and crafts within these communities. Organised under the USTTAD (Upgrading the Skills & Training in Traditional Arts/Crafts for Development) scheme by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, these events aim to provide both market exposure and employment opportunities to artisans, craftsmen and traditional culinary experts. In doing so, they also bolster the skills of individuals already engaged in ancestral work.
USTTAD: Bridging Past and Future
Under the umbrella of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, the USTTAD scheme forms the backbone of the Hunar Haat initiative. Its primary objective is to preserve and promote the rich heritage embodied in traditional arts and crafts specific to minority communities. By building bridges between generations, it ensures that these time-honored skills do not fade into obscurity but rather continue to flourish.
Empowerment via Hunar Haat
A crucial aspect of Hunar Haat is its role as an “Empowerment Exchange” for master artisans and craftsmen. This platform allows them to showcase their workmanship, gain exposure in the market, and secure employment opportunities. Through this, individuals who have preserved and honed their ancestral craft can thrive, ensuring the longevity of these traditional art forms. More importantly, it fuels the artisans’ creativity and strengthens their socio-economic status.
Important Facts about Hunar Haat
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Organizer | Ministry of Minority Affairs under USTTAD scheme |
| Aim | To provide market exposure and employment opportunities to artisans, craftsmen and culinary experts |
| Beneficiaries | Artisans from minority communities engaged in traditional work |
| Role | Acts as an “Empowerment Exchange” for master artisans and craftsmen |
The Road Ahead: Hunar Haat at Lucknow
In the next chapter of this initiative, a Hunar Haat event is slated to take place in Lucknow from 10th to 20th January 2020. This will serve as yet another opportunity to celebrate and uplift the skilled craftsmen who are the custodians of India’s rich cultural heritage. As each event unfolds, the potential of these community members to contribute to the nation’s cultural and economic fabric becomes increasingly apparent. Through platforms like Hunar Haat, we can ensure the continuity of India’s diverse legacy of traditional arts and crafts.
