Learning that Dastkar, an NGO working with craftspeople from across the country, would make generous space for Sanjukta, a brand working towards bringing back gamcchas and lungis into the mainstream, made Sanjukta Roy, its owner, feel a surge of jubilation she hadn’t felt in months. Disappointed with the neglect these weaves have faced for years now, she was beginning to struggle with its sales. But, with the upcoming Dastkar Purabi-Festival of the East, displaying her range, she feels optimistic about her sales. These, she says, will be presented in a modern wearable avatar, keeping in mind modern-day aesthetics.
In addition to Sanjukta’s work, there will be many other craft forms from the eastern states of Odisha, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura and Assam. Kantha sarees, dupattas and stoles, tribal weaves, hand-woven khadi, ikats, eri and muga silks, black pottery, cane and bamboo products, seashell ornaments, dhokra metal crafts, leather toys and more will be on display. Star attraction this year will be designer brands like Dakti: Handmade Impressions and Indi Lou. There will also be pattachitra-inspired block-printed fabrics. Fashionable meenakari, terracotta, bead, silver and stone jewellery will be on display too.
Additionally, folk performances, including Bihu and Dhol Cholam dances from Assam and Manipur, and Gotipua from Odisha will be rendered.
Date March 12 to 23
Time 11 am to 7 pm
Venue Nature Bazaar, Kisan Haat, Andheria Modh, near Chhattarpur Metro Station
Entry Rs 20