Date:02/09/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/09/02/stories/2008090258410200.htm

Andhra Pradesh - Visakhapatnam

Craft melas woo Vizagites

Staff Reporter

Ganesh idols are the chief attraction at expos

Visitors admiring the wooden artefacts from Kalahasthi at the ongoing All India Crafts Bazaar in Visakhapatnam.

VISAKHAPATNAM: The festive season has arrived in all its grandeur and so have the handloom and handicrafts exhibitions in the city.

While Lepakshi is holding a saree mela at Viswapriya Function Hall, Kalasrusti started the All India Craft Bazaar at T.T.D. Kalyana Mandapam, M.V.P. Colony, from Sunday.

Wide range

A range of handicrafts from various regions of the country is put on display at the fair. With Vinayaka Chaviti round the corner, the expo has brought in Ganesha idols in various shapes and forms. Right from Etikopakka Ganeshas to marble idols and grand wooden forms of the Lord are here at the expo. Check out the wooden artefacts from Sri Kalahasthi in different forms and designs.

Jute bags from Bengal in trendy shapes and sizes are available at prices ranging from Rs.35 to Rs.250. For all those who wish to jazz up your homes with some ethnic stuff, there are the jute swings and tablemats from Srikakulam in various sizes. The artistic skill of the craftsmen is evident in the leather puppets and lampshades. Also on display are a whole range of wooden corner tables and chairs and an array of wooden kitchenware. Handlooms like Mangalgiri, Chirala, Kalamkari and Lucknowi cottons are also available at the fair. The expo is on till September 6 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.