Bhubaneswar: The 20th Toshali Swadeshi Mela will commence on February 14 at Janata Maidan, bringing together artisans and weavers from 20 states to showcase India’s handloom and handicraft heritage, officials said.
Organised by the Odisha Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts Department, the fair will feature 905 stalls, including handicrafts, handlooms, MSME products and a dedicated food court. Of these, 150 handicraft and 50 handloom stalls are supported by the Centre, while the state government is facilitating 281 handicraft and 150 handloom stalls. Around 200 MSME stalls and 60 food stalls will also be set up.
The event will include three theme-based pavilions, live craft demonstrations, cultural programmes, fashion shows, and a drone show for the first time. The fair will run until February 26, with organisers projecting a footfall of 30 lakh visitors and business turnover exceeding ₹30 crore.
The Toshali Mela is considered one of eastern India’s largest craft fairs, providing a major marketing platform for traditional artisans and small enterprises.
-OdishaAge
