An artisan demonstrates a traditional Charkha as visitors look on, during the Gandhi Shilp Bazar at Urban Haat, which began on October 21. (Morung Photo)
Week-long Gandhi Shilp Bazar opens in Dimapur
Morung Express News
Dimapur | October 21
The week-long Gandhi Shilp Bazar was inaugurated here, this evening at Urban Haat. Organised by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) through the Handicrafts Service Centre, Kohima, the inaugural ceremony was graced by the presence of Padma Shri awardee, Neihunuo Sorhie, as the chief guest.
Addressing the artisans, Sorhie expressed happiness to be a part of the event, while exclaiming that the artisans have all become her family. The master weaver from Kohima thanked God for her recognition through the years. She owed all her laurels to her late mother, who taught her the art of weaving and the crafts from a young age.
She urged the participants to imbibe originality and hard work into their work, and they would surely go far. Apart from the prestigious Padma Shri, Sorhie has also received the National Handloom Award in 2007 and 2022, the Sant Kabir Award in 2018, and the Balipara Foundation Naturenomics Assam Award in 2014. She encouraged the artisans to focus on their unique creative talents and resist the temptation to replicate the designs of others.
“When I visit stalls, everything always looks the same,” she remarked, while prodding them to break free from repetition and develop their own designs.
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Stressing on the rich tradition of hand-woven crafts which is a heritage that needs to evolve through creativity, Sorhie urged them to be consistent in their art, which will ultimately lead to recognition in the state, region, national and international levels, gradually.
“If you'd like to go for exhibitions, you should start creating your own designs,” she stated.
During the event, guest of honour, Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Dimapur, Dr Tinojongshi Chang acknowledged the Department’s efforts in organizing such events which benefit the craft community.
He highlighted the government’s initiatives to showcase the rich traditions and cultural heritage of the North-East. Dr Chang particularly commended the women artisans for their crucial role in the region’s economy, noting that their products are now being showcased at both national and international platforms.
He expressed optimism that with the continued support of the government and the Department of Textiles, artisans will bring further laurels to the region. He also urged them to take inspiration from Sorhie’s journey of success and aspire to achieve similar heights.
Special guest Narola Jamie, General Manager of NHHDCL, also addressed the gathering. She acknowledged that while Nagaland boasts talented handloom and handicraft entrepreneurs, there is still a need to strengthen market opportunities for the artisans. Jamie stressed that events like these provide entrepreneurs with a platform not only to sell their products but also to sustain their livelihoods. She encouraged them to present their best work, not merely for financial gain, but to showcase the very best of their craftsmanship.
Speech was also delivered by S Das, Assistant Director, Weavers Service Centre, Dimapur.
Earlier during the programme, Dhiraj Kumar, Assistant Director, Handicrafts Service Centre, Kohima reiterated the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts)'s dedication to the growth and global promotion of Indian handicrafts. While commending the artisans for their role in preserving the traditional crafts, Kumar stressed on the importance of sustainability and innovation in the sector.
Keynote address was delivered by Regional Director (NER), Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), K Baro.
The Gandhi Ship Bazar aims to support local artisans by providing them a platform to showcase and sell their handcrafted products. This year's edition coincides with the ongoing Khadi Mahotsav (October 2-31, 2024), a national celebration of Mahatma Gandhi's legacy and India's Khadi tradition.
A live demonstration of Khadi products by a local weaver drew attention to Khadi's cultural and economic significance, while the presence of a traditional Charkha at the venue added to the attraction. The event will run from October 21 – 27, featuring 11 handloom weavers and 50 handicraft artisans from the North-East region.
