Dastkari Haat in Delhi to focus on rich crafts tradition of Iran

Starting on New Year's Day, the 31st Annual Dastkari Haat Craft Bazaar at Dilli Haat here will lay special emphasis on the diverse arts and crafts of Iran, the organisers said on Monday.

Nine highly talented craftspeople, artists and calligraphers from Iran are coming here to engage with their Indian counterparts in a bid to revive the old civilisational and creative links between the two countries. The outcome of this unique India-Iran collaboration will be displayed on January 14 at Dilli Haat, INA.

Iran is considered the birthplace of designer earthenware utensils and is home to the unique and creative art of metalwork which is used to make a variety of ornaments and decorative objects. It is also the producer of exotic carpets.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had visited Tehran in May 2016 and signed a number of strategic, development and cultural agreements.

"The cultural agreement promotes regular exchanges in arts, literature, poetry, language and other forms of cultural activity between Iran and India. And the Dastkari Haat Craft Bazaar is laying the stepping stone in that direction," the organisers said in a statement.

Along with the India-Iran collaboration and products related to it, visitors can also enjoy cultural performances, such as Baul music and Chaau dance from West Bengal, along with folk singers and dancers from Rajasthan on weekends.

Around 200 artisans from various parts of India will also showcase the rich and diverse culture of the country through handlooms, pottery, jute, among other things.

Dastkari Haat Samiti President Jaya Jaitley, said "The Samiti has constantly worked towards expanding opportunities for craftspeople as conservationists of Indian heritage. The Samiti's artisan-members have travelled all over and collaborated with local artisans in other developing nations to create utility-based and market-friendly products. We hope to create beautiful products and relationships through the interaction with Iranian craftsmen as well."

Arts and crafts from various parts of India, presentation of newly discovered craftspersons and skill demonstrations will be showcased at the bazaar from January 1 to January 15 at Dilli Haat.

--IANS

ss/sm/bg