Kanpur: An exhibition showcasing traditional handicrafts from across the country will open in Kanpur on Friday, with artisans from 22 states presenting more than 90 varieties of handmade products at the Convention Centre.Governor Anandiben Patel will inaugurate the CraftsRoutes exhibition. More than 90 artisans are expected to take part in the event, which aims to promote the country’s cultural heritage, traditional crafts and women’s empowerment.Anar Patel, founder of CraftsRoutes and Gramshree, said the exhibition would bring together traditional arts from different regions, local craft traditions and distinctive handmade products on a single platform. The event seeks to provide a market for artisans, bring recognition to their craft and encourage Indian handicrafts at a wider level.Artisans from various states will give live demonstrations of traditional art alongside their products. Among the main attractions will be Bagh print by Ahmed Hussain Khatri of Madhya Pradesh, Patachitra painting by Harsh Raj Bareth (Kosa silk, Chattishgarh); and glass art by Mahesh Kumar of Uttar Pradesh. Visitors will be able to watch the making process and learn about the traditional techniques behind these crafts.Leena Rawal, trustee of Gramshree, said the initiative is linked with more than 35,000 artisans nationwide.
