IT, Electronics and Communications and Human Resource Development Minister Nara Lokesh at the inaugural ‘Vasantham’ Handlooms and Handicrafts Exhibition organized by the Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Council in Vijayawada on Wednesday. | Photo credit: KVS GIRI
Weavers and artisans from across the country have set up more than 70 stalls at the Sri Seshasai Kalyana Vedika Auditorium near Bandar Road in Vijayawada as part of ‘Vasantham 2025’, an exhibition of handlooms and handicrafts organized by the Craft Council of Andhra Pradesh.
The two-day event, which was inaugurated by IT and Communications and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh on Wednesday (November 5), has everything from Andhra Pradesh’s rich Kalamkari paintings and delicate Pochampally Ikat weaves to Kancheepuram silks resplendent with golden zari borders and Bengali soft jamdani. The kaleidoscope of craftsmanship has natural dyes integrated into the earthy aroma of hand-spun cotton.
The intricate motifs of Sambalpur sarees tell the myths of the region, and artisans from Rajasthan display artistically painted ceramics and mirror-embroidered textiles that shimmer under warm lights. A stall from Kashmir offers pashmina scarves so soft they seem to float, while another displays bamboo and jute handicrafts from the Northeast that are eco-friendly, elegant and modern in design.
In addition to the riot of colors and textures, the exhibition is also a marketplace for sustenance. Many of the artisans involved are members of self-help groups or independent weavers who rely on such platforms to support their families and preserve their traditional skills.
The minister went around the stalls and interacted with the artisans to learn more about the details of their work on display. He also launched ‘Kothuru Vasanta Varna’, a new handloom brand that promotes fabrics made with natural and eco-friendly dyes.
Andhra Pradesh Crafts Council Chairman S. Ranjana, Vice Chairman B. Sujatha along with executive members of Saubhagya Lakshmi, Padma, Shailaja and others were present.
Published – 05 Nov 2025 20:02 IST
