Northeast craft carnival promotes artisans and entrepreneurs in Guwahati

The northeast region has a rich legacy of handloom and handicraft work, and in order to promote and provide a platform to the artisans to reach out to the market, the North Eastern Development Finance Corporation (NEDFI) organized the Northeast Craft Carnival 2015 here recently.

Altogether, 40 entrepreneurs from all the Northeast states took part in a five-day long Northeast Craft Carnival.

The fair was organized by the North Eastern Development Finance Corporation (NEDFI) on the occasion of its 20th Foundation Day.

The aim was to give a platform to local entrepreneurs who are working in the field of handicraft products.

Various products like water hyacinth craft, black pottery, candles, sculptures, bamboo cutlery, ornaments and scrap fabric were showcased.

Colorful traditional attires of different tribes and communities were also put on display.

Sourabh Kumar Sharma, one of the organizer's of the event, said, "This is the second time we are organizing this Northeast Craft Carnival. Actually, we want to showcase different crafts, exotic products of the entire northeast. So, this year, the NEDFI tried to bring 40 entrepreneurs from different states so that they get a platform and showcase their products."

The event also provided an opportunity for visitors to interact with the producers and buy products made by them.

The exhibitors were happy with the response.

Sonam Bhutia, a participant from Sikkim, said, "I have brought homemade chocolates from Sikkim. I had taken a three-days training in making chocolates under NEDFI before one year. I have more than 24 flavors at home now but here I have brought 19 flavors. I have got a good response and most of the flavors have been sold out."

The northeast region is famous for its exquisite and colorful hand woven clothes, craftwork and food items.

Exhibitions like these not only help artisans to showcase their products, but help people to become aware of the region's rich art, culture and craft work.