Aadi Mahotsav — a celebration of tribal crafts, cultures, cuisines and commerce organized on a grand scale here in the State Capital has become a centre of attraction for art enthusiasts.
The fair inaugurated a week back at the restored colonial building and an art gallery complex, Audrey House is captivating the interest of leisure buffs not just for unique tribal artwork collections but primarily for live display, where traditional knick-knacks are being crafted out on the spot by the artists.
Artists sitting with the setup, crafting out striking collections of colourful bangles, terracotta jars presenting the essence of tribal arts are getting overwhelming response from the public.
Broadening the concept of selling an item at the fair which was earlier merely restricted to setting up stalls at an event, this is not too often when an artist showcases his/her skills live.
An artist from Khunti, Rangeela Devi engaged in designing miniscule designs on bangles said, “This is for the first time that I am getting an opportunity to design these bangles in the presence of customers. Customers, who earlier just enquired about it, are now experiencing how actually the designs are crafted out. People are enjoying this new concept and even do not mind waiting for longer time, if they have placed an order.”
Another seller from Manipur who is designing the terracotta items live on the spot, expressing his happiness over the response of public said, “More than just sale, what is overwhelming is the interaction with the public here, knowing about their tastes, preferences. Through live demos, more number of public is attracted towards our stall. From moulding to giving final touch-up to the products, everything is done on the spot as per the request and choices of the customers.”
The serene ambiance of Audrey House has added an element of inimitability to the ongoing fair, portraying the value of lost heritage of tribal arts. Over four to five stalls at the fair are such where besides witnessing the regular sale of some unique tribal stuffs, artists there are giving live demonstration of art works.
The annual fair organised by Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Limited (TRIFED) in association with the State government to advertise tribal products in a more sophisticated way will continue till February 4.
“Looking at the overwhelming response of the public, the organising bodies have decided to extend the dates. The fair was supposed to conclude on January 28,” said Regional Director, TRIFED, AD Mishra. According to an executive of TRIFED Regional Centre, by far, through this mega fair, business of Rs. 47 lakh has been done.
For the first time, Jharkhand is hosting ‘Aadi Mahotsav’ where more than 100 artistes from 25 States have participated in the event.
From Jharkhand that registers sufficient number of tribal populace, as many as 20 stalls offering varied range of tribal commodities have been decked up at the fest.
Besides just shopping, one can indulge himself/herself to get authentic taste of some lip-smacking tribal cuisines from across the country.