Nagpur: The state-level Mahalakshmi Saras 2026 exhibition in Reshimbagh in the city has recorded over Rs5 crore in sales within the first week of its inauguration on March 11, reflecting strong response from visitors to products made by women self-help groups (SHGs) across Maharashtra.Speaking to media persons on Wednesday, zilla parishad chief executive officer (CEO) Vinayak Mahamuni said the exhibition has been witnessing consistent footfall and steady business since its opening. He said average daily sales are around Rs50 lakh, while Sunday alone recorded business worth Rs92 lakh, marking the highest single-day sale so far.Officials said food stalls have emerged as the biggest draw, with traditional items such as snacks, pickles, spices and ready-to-eat products receiving maximum response from the visitors. The popularity of these stalls has contributed significantly to the overall turnover.Several participating SHGs have also reported strong individual performance. According to organisers, many groups have achieved sales ranging between Rs4 lakh and Rs5 lakh each within the first few days, indicating growing consumer trust in locally made, handmade and chemical-free products.The exhibition, organised by the rural development and panchayat raj department in association with Umed Maharashtra State Rural Livelihoods Mission and Nagpur Zilla Parishad, features hundreds of stalls showcasing food items, handicrafts, handloom products and rural innovations. With the exhibition set to continue till March 23, organisers expect sales to rise further, especially over the remaining weekend, as more citizens visit the venue.
