KOCHI: A variety of handicrafts, a vibrant collection of traditional textiles, a live puppet show and more await you at the Rajasthan craft fair at Gangothri Hall, Rajaji Road.
There is a wide variety of wooden handicrafts and furniture. From small traditional pooja rooms to tiny toys and wooden carvings made of teak and vengai, wall hangings, indoor decorations, animals and a large variety of deities, the fair has it all. Jaipur lac bangles are available in many colours and designs.
Beaded, sequined and mirror worked, they make an irresistible buy.
There is a section of chunky single pieces made of glass in some trendy shades. An array of precious and semi precious stones in silver and black metal ornaments is tempting.
The textile section features a limited edition of saris in silk and cotton. The charming Banaras silk and kota cotton are available in contemporary designs.
Ethnic tops and salwar material are on offer here. Bed spreads, cushion covers and wall hangings with traditional kantha and zari work from the Kutch region of Gujarat are also on display. The patterns of dancing ladies and Rajasthani dandiya with typical Rajasthani designs on the bed sheets are lovely.
There is also a good collection of men’s apparel from Jaipur like the traditional khadi kurta and pyjama and shirts.
Hand worked ceramic tiles and paintings on silk and velvet are the other highlights of the expo. White metal and bronze articles made in a number of traditional patterns, jewellery boxes made of white metal with embossed paintings, cute glass Ganeshas and the group of black terracotta musicians are something to look out for. You’ll love the special mouth fresheners from Rajasthan.
The collection of chettinad antiques will amuse you for sure. Utensils and artifacts from the past era find a place here. Age-old pallankuzhi boards, ceramic tiffin boxes, ancient changalavattas and vettilachellams made of brass, enamel, bronze and ceramic, and lakshmi lamps are worth a buy. Dry flowers made of palm leaves, pine flowers and peepal leaves are also on display.
Their subtle colour variations and dramatic appeal draw you towards them.
Eco-friendly footwear made of jute is another attraction. Their simple designs and patterns will go with a variety of casuals.
If you want to see a Rajasthani puppet show visit the live puppet show corner. A number of puppets, all dressed in traditional Rajasthani style, are set to entertain you.
The exhibition is on till July 26.