Traditional Magic: PM Vishwakarma Artisans Steal the Show at BRICS Cultural Bazar
Skilled artisans from across India displayed traditional crafts and live demos at the BRICS Cultural Bazar in New Delhi under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme.
India's timeless heritage took center stage at the Parliament House Complex in New Delhi, as artisans under the PM Vishwakarma artisans BRICS showcase brought the country's diverse craftsmanship to a global audience. During the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum held on October 26-27, a special two-day Cultural Bazar served as a vibrant window into India's indigenous skills, traditional crafts, and the empowerment of its local creators.
Organized by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), the event provided a prestigious platform for artisans to exhibit their work to both national and international delegates. From the intricate metalwork of the east to the leathercraft of the west, the bazar highlighted the profound impact of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme in preserving dying arts and uplifting the lives of those who practice them.
A Pan-India Display of Mastery
The exhibition featured eight selected artisans and craftspeople representing a wide geographical spread, including Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Nagaland, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. These masters of their trade represented various traditional sectors, including:
- Goldsmiths
- Tailors
- Sculptors and Stone Carvers
- Doll and Toy Makers
- Cobblers
Beyond static displays, the event came alive with live demonstrations. Visitors were treated to a firsthand look at the meticulous techniques and sheer skill required to transform raw materials into works of art, bridging the gap between the creator and the consumer.
Stories of Transformation: From Local Lanes to Global Screens
The Cultural Bazar didn't just showcase products; it told stories of how the PM Vishwakarma Scheme is integrating traditional art with modern commerce. Several artisans shared how the scheme has helped them transition from local markets to global e-commerce platforms.
The Metal Magic of Jharkhand
Makbul Jadu Patiya, a Dokra artisan from Jharkhand, captivated visitors with the ancient lost-wax casting technique. His intricate metal designs are a testament to a craft that has survived for millennia. Through the scheme, Patiya has not only exhibited at Dilli Haat and State Trade Fairs but has also been onboarded onto Amazon, significantly expanding his customer base.
The Marble Marvels of Madhya Pradesh
Representing the GI-tagged Jabalpur Stone Craft, Anurag Sahu showcased hand-carved marble statues, souvenirs, and pooja articles created from the famous New Bhedaghat Marble. By blending traditional artistry with precise detailing, Sahu has taken his business online via Amazon and Flipkart with the support of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme.
The Heritage Hues of Maharashtra and Karnataka
From Maharashtra, Bajirao Shamrao Satpute brought the legacy of Kolhapur to the capital. His handcrafted Kolhapuri chappals, featuring the distinctive Nach Mauri Patta design, represent a pinnacle of leather craftsmanship. Like others, Satpute has utilized the scheme to enter the Amazon marketplace for better branding and wider reach.
Meanwhile, Deepu S from Karnataka showcased the colorful world of Channapatna and Kinhal toys. Having received a toolkit and completed specialized skill training under the scheme, Deepu is now selling his traditional toys on the Meesho e-commerce platform.
Empowering the Roots
The impact of the scheme was further evident in the story of Dheeraj Kumar, a stone sculptor from Bihar. Specializing in figures of Lord Buddha and other deities—reflecting Gaya's historical ties to Buddhism—Kumar utilized loan assistance from the PM Vishwakarma Scheme to procure raw materials. Additionally, a new toolkit has allowed him to achieve superior finishing in cutting, grinding, and polishing his sculptures.
The exhibition also featured the vibrant work of Mohamad Nasim from Rajasthan, a goldsmith renowned for creating traditional lac bangles adorned with decorative stones and vivid colors, embodying the spirit of Rajasthani artistry.
The participation of these artisans at the BRICS Parliamentary Forum underscores the government's commitment to enhancing the visibility of traditional craftsmen, providing them with market exposure, and ensuring that India's indigenous skills continue to thrive in a digital age.