Nagpur: A vibrant mix of culture, craft and colour drew large crowds to the South Central Zone Cultural Centre (SCZCC) on Saturday as the 32nd Orange City Craft Fair and Folk Dance Festival gathered momentum on its second day. The venue saw a steady influx of visitors from around 2pm, with families and youngsters thronging the stalls showcasing a diverse range of handicrafts from across the country. From hand-block printed fabrics and intricate embroidery to Jamdani and Banarasi sarees, the fair offered a rich display of traditional artistry. Shoppers were seen exploring leather goods, metal crafts, jewellery, Panja dhurries, zari work, Chanderi and Chikankari garments, Phulkari textiles, Punjabi jutis, and Khurja pottery, among others. Furniture, carpets, handloom products also drew huge interest.Adding to the festive atmosphere were live traditional performances by Bahurupi artists from Maharashtra and puppeteers from Rajasthan, which kept visitors engaged through the afternoon.The highlight of the evening was a series of folk dance performances, drawing enthusiastic applause from audience. Artistes from across states presented a diverse cultural repertoire, including Veeranatyam from Andhra Pradesh, Dhediya from Uttar Pradesh, Gudum Baja from Madhya Pradesh, Sehariya Swang from Rajasthan, Talwar Raas and Beda Raas from Gujarat, Lai Haraoba from Manipur, and Ghode Modni from Goa. Each performance reflected the unique traditions and storytelling styles of its region.Organisers said the fair, which will continue till April 5, aims to promote indigenous crafts and provide a platform for artisans and performers. The event features a crafts bazaar and food zone starting at 2pm, followed by cultural programmes in evening. SCZCC director Astha Karlekar appealed citizens to attend in large numbers and support traditional art forms.
