Eye-catching, innovative, classical or folk — the range of handicrafts at Dastkar Mela has it all. Brilliantly executed Madhubani art by master artisan Paswan, Mohammad Imran’s two-feet-tall ceramic vases and urns in classic blue and white, and striped and checked dhurries hand-woven by Feroz from Mirzapur catch the eye with their exemplary craft work, concept and detailing. Imran’s pottery offers a wealth of gift options, from colourful, hand-painted floral vases to classic blue and white wall plates, lamp stands and charming tea pots and mugs among others.
A variety of textile choices is also on display. Stunning buttidar Chanderis with wide gold borders and huge amri motifs all over make for the perfect festive wear. Also on display are interesting block prints with unusual motifs and indigo saris from Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Vegetable colours extracted from pomegranate rind and tobacco leaf lend their magic to a host of Maheshwari and mull saris, and yardage.
Not to be missed are patchwork bed sheets from Sawai Madhopur.
The jewellery section has semi-precious and silver jewellery by Kamlesh, as well as panchaloha neck pieces from Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
For the young, there are embroidered Banjara bags, funky jewellery and tiny cycle lanterns from Saharanpur. Camel bells made out of a mixture of wrought iron and brass are perfect new age interior statements.
The Dastkar Mela is on till Pongal at Valluvar Kottam, Nungambakkam High Road.
