Bengaluru Dastkar Bazaar returns with its 20th edition; celebrates art and crafts

The 20th edition of the Bengaluru Dastkar Bazaar is on at the Jayamahal Palace Hotel in the city, with scheduled dates this year being May 27 To June 2. The bazaar is essentially an exhibition that puts the spotlight on rural crafts and craftsmen and women, who are looking for means to revive livelihoods after Covid-19-induced financial setbacks. (Express photo by Jithendra M)

This exhibition provides craftspeople with the exposure and the opportunity to directly interact with customers, enabling them to understand market trends and demands for their products. (Express photo by Jithendra M)

It is also a platform for increasing awareness and appreciation for Indian handicrafts among the urban population. (Express photo by Jithendra M)

Visitors going to the bazaar can expect a range of artistic home décor products to choose from, which includes jewellery, metal crafts, carved furniture, pottery, ceramics, fibre crafts, painting, handlooms, leather products, among others. (Express photo by Jithendra M)

In addition to that, there is also the celebration of authentic Indian handicraft experience -- where there is participation of more than 140 craft groups and entrepreneurs from more than 20 states. (Express photo by Jithendra M)

Some of the highlights this year are: golden grass from Odisha, wrought iron from Chattisgarh, chikankari and Benarasi work from Uttar Pradesh, Kanjivaram from Tamil Nadu and intricate suf and Rabari embroideries from Kutch. (Express photo by Jithendra M)

Dastkar is working to support traditional craftspeople, most of whom are village-based. (Express photo by Jithendra M)

The idea is to help them regain their place in the market in a country where the craft sector is second only to agriculture in terms of employment generation. (Express photo by Jithendra M)

The bazaar timings are 10.30 am to 8.30 pm and the entry fee is INR 50. (Express photo by Jithendra M)

Stunning piece of work, isn't it? (Express photo by Jithendra M)