From Rajasthani lac bangles to Kashmiri handicrafts, fair to run till Oct 9

Prayagraj: The “Pragya Prayag Utsav Mela,” which brings together crafts, handicrafts, and traditional cuisine from various states of the country, was inaugurated on Thursday by Dr. Mukesh Upadhyay, Deputy Director of the North Central Zone Cultural Center, and Assistant Abhinav Rai, by garlanding a Ganesh idol and lighting a lamp. Organized by the center, the fair was held at the Shilp Haat located on the center’s campus.

Craftsmen from various states, including Rajasthan, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Delhi, and Haryana, have arrived at the fair. Stalls display lacquer bangles from Rajasthan, meenakari jewelry from Madhya Pradesh, hand block paintings from Bihar, hand embroidery from New Delhi and Kolkata, hand-printed textiles and Kantha embroidery from West Bengal, and artwork and suits from Kashmir. Traditional handicrafts from different regions are also attracting visitors.

Center Director Sudesh Sharma said that approximately 80 stalls have been set up at the fair, including 16 from Prayagraj. Along with handicrafts, traditional and delicious dishes from various states can be tasted at the food court.

He said the festival will continue until October 9th. The fair will be open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is free. Residents can interact directly with artisans, observe their work closely, and purchase handicraft products of their choice.