In the profusion of high-value Sambhalpuri ikat saris, palm-leaf craft, Rajasthani lac bangles and Saharanpur's jaali brass in-lay furniture and artefacts, one can discern touches of innovation and a melding of craft skills from different parts of the country. This eclectic fusion makes for fun Deepavali shopping at the Rajasthan Diwali Mela on at Vijayaraja Kalyana Mandapam (opp. Adyar Telephone Exchange).
The lac bangles have a hint of Kalamkari art, and Kondapalli toys as tailors, soldiers, vegetable vendors, and goldsmiths exude realism.
Rajasthani artisan's depiction of North Indian calendar art-style gods and goddesses with iridescent radium lighting, cushion covers with pipli-work patches, torans, and an array of terracotta diyas — painted and plain — too are on view.
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The beautifully-designed Sambhalpuri ikat yardage and saris crafted by Subhash Chandra Sahu are said to use only vegetable dyes, with designs given by the Weavers Service Centre. Intricately-woven and featuring typical Oriya motifs of fish, animals and birds, they capture the festive spirit with the use of a vibrant colour palette.
The exhibition is on till October 16.