Karnataka - Mysore   

‘Urban Haat’ is back in Mysore

MYSORE: “Urban Haat” is back after a period of three months. Beginning from Friday, with a Ugadi Crafts Mela that will run till April 14, the “haat” will feature arts and crafts from across India on a continuous basis during the next three months.

On the anvil are exhibitions showcasing dress materials from West Bengal, traditional silk saris, sea shell items, arts and crafts from Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Assam and Andhra Pradesh apart from handicrafts of Karnataka.

If the response to the handicrafts expo in Mysore is any indication, the coming months should witness a surge in the popular interest. Incidentally, the “haat” is an annual affair that celebrates one event every year. But, the establishment of a permanent venue on the K.R.S. road has not only provided an avenue for artisans to showcase their products on a regular basis, but has also given the handicrafts industry a fillip.

The concept of “Urban Haat” entails inviting artisans from all over India with a focus on specific themes to showcase rare and exotic products from across the country. It has also helped artisans get the much-needed support so that they showcase their products in an effective way. The event also aims at enhancement in exports, apart from improving their technical skills through structured programmes.

For the artisans, the institution has helped establish direct contact with international and regular customers, which has resulted in the elimination of need for middlemen. The impact of such endeavours will be an improvement in the economic conditions of artisans, who will now receive greater incomes. The “Urban Haat” has something for gourmets too, who can look forward to tasting ethnic culinary delights at its permanent multi-cuisine restaurant “Curry Crafters.” It will dish out South Indian and North Indian specialities, apart from the traditional food of Karnataka. The summer is expected to witness a surge in visitors as it coincides with the tourist season.

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