Prayagraj: The festive season is here, and preparations for decorating homes are in full swing. Adding to the celebrations, the North Central Zone Cultural Centre (NCZCC), under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, is set to host the 12-day “Diwali Craft Fair”, bringing together a vibrant confluence of craft, culture, cuisine, and creativity in its fourth edition. The fair will be inaugurated on Wednesday, October 8, at 5:00 PM at the Shilp Haat, NCZCC Campus, Prayagraj, by Prof. Satyakam, Vice Chancellor, Uttar Pradesh Rajarshi Tandon Open University. The fair will remain open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, till October 19, 2025.
NCZCC Director Sudesh Sharma said the Diwali Craft Fair aims to promote Indian handicrafts, artisanship, and indigenous products, in alignment with the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, encouraging people to support local craftsmen and traditional arts.
A Celebration of India’s Handcrafted Heritage: This year’s fair will feature artisans from across India showcasing their unique craftsmanship. Visitors can explore West Bengal’s jute work, Jaipur’s lacquer bangles, Rajasthan’s crystal paintings, Rampur’s patch and zari work, Khurja’s ceramic cups and plates, Telangana’s pearl jewellery, Jammu & Kashmir’s dry fruits, and several local handicraft products from Uttar Pradesh. The food court will offer a variety of Awadhi and Maharashtrian delicacies, adding rich flavors to the festive experience.
Evenings of Folk Music and Dance – Every evening from 6:00 PM onwards, the fair will host captivating cultural performances celebrating India’s diverse folk traditions.
The inaugural day will open with “Prayag Dhol Vrind Vadan” by Santosh Kumar and troupe from Kaushambi, followed by Vedic chanting by students of Saudamini Sanskrit Vidyalaya.
The evening will continue with a Bhajan Sandhya by Ratnesh Dubey, a Braj folk dance performance by Murari Lal Tiwari troupe from Mathura, and the mesmerizing Dhedhiya folk dance by Abhishek Singh and group from Prayagraj. The 12-day Diwali Craft Fair promises not only an exceptional shopping experience but also a vibrant cultural celebration, showcasing India’s living traditions, craftsmanship, and culinary diversity all under one festive roof.
