Onam festivities are in the air and it is time for exhibitions and shopping fairs. Kerala Gandhi Smarak Nidhi has kicked off its sale at Gandhi Bhavan, Thycaud, featuring a wide variety of Khadi and village industries products.
The fair, which began early this month, has showcased a plethora of handloom and handicraft items. Curios and collectibles made of wood, various kinds of fibre, and ceramics, have been showcased. Bags, purses, dolls, table mats and decorative pieces made of banana fibre are a major attraction. Priced at Rs. 20 and up, these products come from various Khadi societies.
Bengal cotton saris, Khadi silk saris and those with Kantha work are up for grabs. Readymade shirts in cotton and silk, kurtas and unstitched Khadi material are available at the fair. Snacks and savouries from various small-scale units, cane furniture, footwear, soaps and toiletries, pickles, oils, herbal products and a wide range of products from Santhigiri such as squashes, syrups and herbal drinks are on sale.
A highlight of the fair is a stall of the Coir Board that has showcased flower pots, plant climbers and hanging pots, all made of coir. “These pots retain moisture for a long time compared to the common flower pots,” says a salesperson at the stall. While the small pots cost Rs. 59, the big ones cost Rs. 144. The plant climber costs Rs. 80 and hanging pot Rs. 135.
There is a special rebate of 30 per cent on cotton Khadi and silk Khadi and of 20 per cent on poly cotton products. The coir products have a discount of 15 per cent on them.
The fair concludes on September 15. Time: 9.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.
