P Tokugha Sema inaugurating the State Handloom Expo at CT Square, Chümoukedima on December 2. (DIPR Photo)
Chümoukedima, December 2 (MExN): The State Handloom Expo (SHE) - Hathkargha Mela was inaugurated CT Square, Chümoukedima by P Tokugha Sema, Director of Industries and Commerce on December 2. The event was inaugurated in the presence of Lhousito Khro, Chairman of the Chümoukedima Town Council, and Nuito Awomi, Chairman of the East Dimapur Town Council.
As per the DIPR report, the expo, organised by the Directorate of Industries & Commerce and funded by the Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Ministry of Textiles, featured traditional handloom works by artisans from various parts of Nagaland, aiming to promote local weavers and strengthen market opportunities for Nagaland’s indigenous crafts.
A total of 60 stalls have been set up at the venue, comprising 48 handloom stalls and 12 handicraft stalls. Artisans and weavers from Nagaland and Assam are participating in the mela.
Exhibitors from Nagaland are showcasing a range of traditional items, including cotton and stinging nettle mekhelas, ornaments, and products crafted from banana fibre. Participants from Assam have brought a variety of cane products, eri silk items, and jute bags, attracting visitors looking for both daily-use goods and gift items.
One of the key attractions of the State Handloom Expo is a small thematic pavilion on natural fibres, which displays sample products made from stinging nettle, orange rhea, wild ginger lily, and banana fibres. Designed more as a product development corner than a commercial stall, the space highlights the potential of these natural fibres for use in textiles and wearable products.
The expo will continue from December 2 to 15 and will be open to the public daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
