Bhartiya Hastkala Utsav Showcases GI-Tagged Handicrafts in Chennai

Chennai: The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH), in association with the Development Commissioner of Handicrafts, Government of India, organised Bhartiya Hastkala Utsav, a four-day exhibition highlighting India’s authentic Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged handicrafts, at Chennai Citi Centre Mall, Mylapore. The exhibition will be held from January 23 to 26.

The event was inaugurated by senior government officials, including Amuthavalli, IAS, Secretary to Government, Department of Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles and Khadi, Government of Tamil Nadu, along with other dignitaries from the state administration and trade bodies.

The exhibition features over 50 GI-tagged craft products sourced directly from master artisans across the country. Visitors can explore and purchase a wide range of traditional art forms such as Thanjavur and Mysore paintings, Cheriyal paintings, Toda embroidery, Venkatagiri sarees, Vadasseri temple jewellery, Villianur terracotta, Channapatna toys, and other region-specific handicrafts.

Addressing the gathering, K.N. Tulasi Rao, Southern Regional Convenor, EPCH, said the event aims to create direct market access for artisans while raising awareness about the authenticity, cultural significance and traditional knowledge associated with GI-tagged crafts. He added that the display-cum-sale format enables meaningful interaction between artisans and consumers, supporting sustainable livelihoods and the preservation of India’s craft heritage.

The exhibition has attracted steady footfall and offers Chennai residents an opportunity to engage with India’s living craft traditions.