Bhopal: The historic Gohar Mahal is currently hosting a vibrant showcase of Madhya Pradesh’s traditional arts and crafts with the “Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Tiranga Mela,” which began on Tuesday and will run until August 20. Organized by the Madhya Pradesh Handicrafts and Handloom Development Corporation, the fair has become a key destination for enthusiasts of traditional craftsmanship, with the stunning Maheshwari sari emerging as the star attraction.
Fair in-charge Arvind Sharma noted that the event’s primary goal is to create a market for local artisans and to reconnect the public with the state’s rich heritage of art and craft. The timeless elegance of the Maheshwari sari, an art form initiated by Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar in Maheshwar nearly 250 years ago, is drawing the most attention. Several shoppers, particularly women, expressed their enthusiasm for the sarees, purchasing them for special occasions.
Beyond the popular Maheshwari textiles, the fair features a colorful array of handcrafted goods. Visitors can browse a diverse collection of Chanderi fabrics, intricate Bagh prints, and unique metal crafts like Dokra and Bell Metal art. The fair also includes a wide selection of brass and wood carvings, terracotta items, and handcrafted jewelry.
In celebration of Independence Day, the entire venue has been decorated with a vibrant “Tiranga” (tricolor) theme, adding a patriotic fervor to the event. The fair offers a rich cultural experience and a unique opportunity to support local artisans while celebrating the state’s artistic legacy.
