A colorful window into India's neighbouring world and beyond and the rich diversity of handicrafts and culture from Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Pakistan, Nepal, Vietnam, and Uzbekistan is on display at the ongoing Dastkar exhibition here.
"As the KD Laing song goes - 'Art has no boundaries...' nor does craft. In this cross-cultural craft bazaar, Dastkar has invited countries from Asia and beyond to further strengthen the craft traditions of this culturally rich region, which has so many diverse craft techniques and mediums, but also many inter-linked common traditions!" says Laila Tyabji, Chairperson and Founder, Dastkar.
Dastkar, in partnership with Delhi Tourism, presents the third exciting edition of the cross-cultural craft bazaar- 'Crossing Boundaries' that ends on September 28.
Artisans and craft organisations have come together with their Indian counterparts to share and showcase talents, techniques and products.
"We are happy to be here and showcase our skills, techniques and products. Customers are appreciating the blend of traditional with contemporary designs in garments, home furnishings, decorative items, jewellery, etc. This experience has helped us in understanding the market response to our crafts," says Mehreen Ilahi, participant from Pakistan.
Illahi has brought a number of products like intricate phulkari embroidered textiles, applique home furnishings and garments, embroidered garments, handmade cloth and bead toys for the exhibition, but the most unique product is her truck art inspired handbags and footwear which are creating quite a steer among customers visiting the fair.
Kilim woolen rugs and intricate hand-knotted silk carpets from Afghanistan find matching echoes with hand-woven dhurries and carpets by traditional weavers from Uttar Pradesh and Kashmir, while craftswomen from Gujarat, Bihar and Karnataka embroidering suf, sujini and lambani meet their counterparts from Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Vietnam.
"The event gives artisans an avenue to study consumer trends from across borders and what they need to keep in mind while trading with other countries. As importantly, the bazaar helps them in creating links where they can interact with each other and share the experiences, challenges and opportunities of being craftspeople in the 21st century market place," says Tyabji.
