New Delhi (NVI): An embodiment of the spirit of Indian tribal craft and culture, the prestigious 15-day National Tribal Festival “Aadi Mahotsav” unfolded amid traditional fanfare here on Saturday.
The festival, which will continue till 30th November, is the celebration of the spirit of Tribal Craft, Culture, Cuisine and Commerce. More than 1000 tribal artisans and artists from 27 states are participating in the Mahotsav.
The concept of organizing Aadi Mahotsav in major cities has proved to be a boon for tribal artisans by eliminating the middle man and providing direct access to large markets, otherwise impossible to reach for them.
The theme of the Mahotsav is: “A Celebration of the Spirit of Tribal Culture, Craft, Cuisine and Commerce”. The festival features exhibition-cum-sale of tribal handicrafts, art, paintings, fabric, jewellery and much more through 220 stalls.
Post inauguration of event on 16th November 2019, the remaining14 days of the festival have been dedicated to Parliamentarian’s Day, All India Service Day, Diplomats Day, Tourism Day, Defence Day, Sports Day, Textile Day, IAS Officers Wive’s Association, Media Day, Cooperative Day, North East Day, TRIFED Partner/Tribal Entrepreneur Day with Closing Ceremony on last day i.e. 30th November 2019.
The tribal textiles manufactured by Master tribal Craftsmen from Jammu & Kashmir in the North to Tamil Nadu in the South and from Gujarat in the West to Nagaland/Sikkim in the East are the main attractions. For the first time, this AADI MAHOTSAV is showcasing a wide range of products from the tribal artisan from Leh (Ladakh). Apart from this special attraction a wide range of products from North Easter States are on display and sale. .
In line with the national aspiration to go cashless, the tribal artisans are accepting payment through major credit/debit cards for which Point of Sale (POS) machines have been provided in each stall.
The festival was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the presence of Union Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda, Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Renuka Singh, .Tribal Affairs Minister of Nagaland Temjen Imna, Members of Parliament Meenakshi Lekhi, Jual Oram and M. C. Mary Kom.