Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has initiated the annual Toshali National Crafts Mela in Bhubaneswar on January 21. The inauguration of the Crafts Mela was conducted virtually, signaling the commencement of a significant event in the cultural calendar of Eastern India. This exposition showcases the rich tapestry of handlooms and handicrafts from the region and beyond, attracting visitors and connoisseurs from various parts of the country.
Adherence to COVID-19 Guidelines
All attendees of the Toshali National Crafts Mela are being strictly advised to adhere to COVID-19 safety protocols. Organizers have put measures in place to ensure that social distancing is maintained and that masks are worn at all times. These precautions are essential to safeguard the health of both the participants and the visitors, providing a safe environment for everyone to enjoy the mela.
Popularity and Significance of Toshali Crafts Mela
The Toshali Crafts Mela has established itself as one of the premier events for handlooms and handicrafts in Eastern India. It serves as a platform for artisans to display their exquisite creations and for enthusiasts to purchase authentic handmade items. The fair has gained popularity over the years, becoming a key attraction for those interested in the traditional arts and crafts of the region.
Awards and Recognitions
During the inauguration event, three artisans were honored with the prestigious State Handicrafts Award-2019. The awardees are Dilip Kumar Swain for palm leaf engraving, Divyajyoti Behera for stone sculpting, and Priyanka Patra for terracotta work. Padmini Dian, the Minister of State for Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts, presented these awards, acknowledging the exceptional talent and dedication of these craftsmen.
Additionally, seven other artisans received the State Kalakruti Award for their contributions to various crafts. The recipients include Ronibala Mohapatra for pattachitra, Susant Kumar Das and Nityananda Sa for stone sculpting, Suresh Chandra Mohapatra for applique work, Nirmal Chandra Das for palm leaf engraving, and Kuni Patra for coir craft. These awards highlight the diverse range of skills present within the artisan community of Odisha.
Exhibition Details and Stall Information
The Toshali National Crafts Mela features a total of 250 stalls at the Janata Maidan venue. Of these, 170 stalls represent the rich textiles and crafts of Odisha, while the remaining 80 showcase the handloom and handicrafts from other states. This extensive collection provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the variety and beauty of Indian craftsmanship under one roof.
Event Schedule and Visitor Information
The Toshali National Crafts Mela is open to the public until February 4, operating daily from 2 pm to 9 pm. This schedule allows visitors ample time to explore the diverse range of products on offer and to interact with the artisans directly. The extended hours ensure that even those with busy schedules can visit the mela and engage with the rich cultural heritage it presents.
In summary, the Toshali National Crafts Mela is not only a celebration of traditional arts and crafts but also an important event for recognizing and rewarding the talent of local artisans. With its wide array of stalls and adherence to safety norms, the mela invites everyone to partake in the cultural wealth of Odisha and India at large.
