Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, Dec 15: The 9th Toshali National Crafts Mela was inaugurated at Janata Maidan here Monday by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
Welcoming artisans from other states who are showcasing their wares at the fair, the Chief Minister said, “Our country is a storehouse of traditional wisdom that is reflected in our art and crafts. The handloom and handicraft sector are demonstrative of the vibrant cultural wealth of India.”
“Our weavers and craftsmen are saviours of our conventional cultural prosperity. Their magical hands have been creating wonders, which we need to honour, preserve and promote,” Patnaik added.
The National Crafts Mela will be a thirteen-day affair, and is being organised by the department of handlooms, textiles and handicrafts. This year’s theme is ‘Magic in Metal’, and the dhokra metal craft of Orissa will be showcased.
Hailing Orissan craft, Patnaik said, “Orissa handicrafts and handlooms always have a special place in our hearts. The unique and intricate design of our crafts makes them exceptional and they secure a glorious place in crafts arena.”
Visitors to the fair were memerised by sparkling Odissi dance performances which were conducted under the mentorship of eminent Odissi exponent Aruna Mohanty. The dance performance marked the first day of the cultural events listed to be staged at the 13-day fair.
Among other dignitaries present on the occasion were handlooms, textiles and handicrafts minister Snehangini Chhuria, tourism and culture minister Ashok Panda, Bhubaneswar MP Prasanna Patasani, Bhubaneswar MLAs Bijay Mohanty (Central), Priyadarshi Mishra (North), and handicrafts and handlooms secretary Chitra Armugam.
