Gujarat Emporium displays a collection of exquisite handicrafts and attires at Women’s Association Hall, Diwans road (behind TDM hall).
The show conducted by Gujarat State Hand loom and Handicrafts and Industrial co-operative Federation Ltd, aims to improve the livelihood of craftsmen and hand loom weavers, avoiding middlemen. The artisans sell their products at their own reduced rates. “Keeping in mind that Keralites love fashionable and trendy items, we are introducing a wide range of unique products,” says K Arunachalam, Manager, Gujarat Emporium.
The exhibition showcases a wide range of products from Gujarat, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Uttar pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa and Karnataka.
There is a fabulous collection of exclusive dress materials, beautiful gift items, leather bags, jewellery and Kholapuri chappals. The ‘Pottachitra’ paintings and the ‘Dokra’ tribal art from Orissa and the special ‘Fenshui’ products from China are added attractions. “The Tibetan bell and the Singing bowl made by a combination of seven metals acquire prominence due to its capacity to release negative energy and produce positive energy in people,” says Suresh, one of the traders.
There is also an array of enchanting white metal ornaments for women, fascinating chains, studs and lockets made of precious and semi-precious stones of Jaipur, Gujarati bangles made up of glittering Australian diamonds and 22ct gold covering ornaments made of coral, emerald and different types of precious and semi-precious stones of extreme elegance.
Another attraction of this exhibition is the live demo of certain crafts which is interesting for the visitors to watch and learn.
The exhibition promotes participation of National Award winners with their own products at low rates including all home need items. The cost of the products range from Rs 10 to Rs 10,000. The exhibition, with the grants from the Central Government provides 20 per cent discount on hand looms and 10 per cent on handicrafts.
The exhibition was inaugurated by mayor Tony Chammani. It is sponsored by the Development Commissioner of Handicrafts, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, New Delhi and organized under the development scheme of the Government of India.
The show will be there till May 12.