With products ranging from cane furniture to jewellery and handloom materials among others, handicrafts by women from South Asia are taking pride of place at the ongoing crafts mela in the capital.
'All women' organisations from the seven Saarc countries Afghanistan, Bhutan, Pakistan and Sri Lanka are participating in the annual craft fair organised by the Dastkari Samiti at Dilli Haat here.
"This time, crafts displayed are from groups who employ women artisans. This is to promote the work and self-esteem of women," says Jaya Jaitly, the pioneer behind the concept of Dilli Haat.
"Women folk form a large chunk of workers involved in the handicraft industry, but are not paid back the share they deserve. It is a dedication to all women organisations who bring together such women and fight for their rights," she says.
Ruksana, a member of Pakistani group 'Asasah', and exhibiting here for the first time, has brought with her, the country's exotic hand embroidery work, along with sarees, suits, dupattas, storage boxes with mirror work and decorative pieces.
"It's the first time that I am coming to India to display our organisation's craft work, and the beginning has been an extremely wonderful affair," says Ruksana.
Meanwhile, The Federation of Women Entrepreneurs Association of Nepal is showcasing its paper craft. Paper bags and lamp shades made from a specific bush called Lokta, found only in the Himalayan belt, are the major attractions at their stall.
The handicraft association of Bhutan at their stall, highlights similarity which it shares with the Northeastern states in India.
From hand-woven shawls, bags and skirts, the stall displays the country's traditional weaving pattern, Rajju. The stall also has peculiar wooden pots made from the bark of pine trees.
Prayer wheels, Buddhist singing bowls and wall hangings emphasising the influence of spirituality in lifestyle are showcased by a Tibetan group based in Himachal Pradesh.
The festival, which will conclude on January 7, also features puppet shows, magic shows, Qawalli, Dandiya and Chhau dance.
