Weavers and artisans from northeast get exposure at Imphal Expo

A national level handloom expo was recently organized in Manipur to promote handloom traditions of the northeast and create a wider market for both weavers and artisans.

A two-week long National Handloom Expo was held at Iboyaima Shanglen in Imphal to promote the handloom sector.

Weavers and artisans from across Manipur put together 61 stalls to showcase their handmade products.

Excited customers thronged the expo to buy shawls, Khudei, Phaneks, Sarees... and much more.

"The national handloom expo is a part of northeastern region textile promotion scheme sponsored by office of Development commission for handloom New Delhi. It is a part of marketing of handloom product under this scheme is sponsored by commerce and industry department. It is a good platform for both the buyers and seller as they share the same platform," said Sandeep P.Thubrikar, an organizer

Meanwhile, visitors got a chance to buy products like stones, wood craft and bamboo made items at a craft bazaar organized by Help and Development Organisation (HADO).

"There is no marketing for the weaver to sell their products so organizing such Mela is a good platform for them to display their products and for us we get a chance to see different kinds of products so it's very good," said Sonia, a visitor

The work of the local artisans was much appreciated by the people.

"We have a variety of handloom products but we lack proper marketing. Such fairs provide a good platform to sell our products and make profits," said Uritkhinbam Bala Devi, an artisan.

And, exhibitions like this one enable the draftspersons to directly reach the customers.