New Delhi (NV): Keeping in line with Vocal for Local and a self-reliant India vision, Diplomats’ Day, a Tribes India Conclave, was organized at the Aadi Mahotsav in Dilli Haat yesterday.
In order to introduce the rich tribal heritage to international audiences, the event was organized by TRIFED, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, in association with Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
The event was attended by over 120 diplomats from more than 30 foreign missions in India which included diplomats from countries such as Taipei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Finland, Brazil, Egypt, Costa Rica, Philippines, Afghanistan, USA, Turkey, UK, Iran, France to name a few.
In addition to this, delegates from international organizations such as UNHCR and UNDP also attended the event.
With about 200 stalls on display which showcase products ranging from traditional weaves to jewellery and paintings and toys, the dignitaries were given a glimpse into tribal arts and crafts.
Furthermore, there were live demonstrations by artisans on how to make Longpi pottery, Lac bangles and Gond paintings. Tribal artisans also performed a live puppet show at the event.
In a brief presentation to the delegates, Pravir Krishna, MD, TRIFED said. “This is a mini tribal India in one place where you can buy the best of tribal handicrafts and produce and sample the best of tribal cuisine and culture. TRIFED is working to bring these tribal artisans and forest dwellers into the mainstream and provide them access to larger markets. 500 such events are organised in an year – some on a smaller scale.”
The presentation dwelled further the visiting delegates to the world of tribal artisans and forest dwellers and gave them some insight into the tribal artistic traditions and TRIFED’s initiatives in empowering them and bringing them into the mainstream.
Bigger and brighter than the editions before and with about 200 stalls and 1000 participating artisans from across the country, the Aadi Mahotsav, a mini-India all under one roof, is a one-stop gifting destination that caters to different types of needs.
From the natural and immunity-boosting tribal produce such as dry amla, wild honey, black pepper to artefacts such as paintings be it in the Warli style or Patachitras; from jewellery handcrafted in the Dokra style to bead necklaces from the Wancho and Konyak tribes of the North-East to the rich and vibrant textiles and silks; 1500 such items have been identified from which people can choose from.
There is a separate GI products stall also which features renowned, exquisite items such as Rajasthan’s blue pottery, the Kota Dariya fabric, Madhya Pradesh’s Chanderi and Maheshwari silk, Bagh print.
Geographical indication tagging has acquired a greater significance ever since the focus has shifted towards Vocal for Local and building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Aadi Mahotsav — A Celebration of the Spirit of Tribal Crafts, Culture and Commerce – is on at Dilli Haat, till February 15.
-CHK
