Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (MD)
Mangalore, Oct 24: The crafts mela of Tamilnadu Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited, popularly known as 'Poompuhar', was inaugurated by Mangalore City Corporation Mayor Mahabala Maarla on Friday October 24, at Woodlands Hotel in Mangalore.
Addressing the media, Mayor Maarla said "Statue of Lord Vishnu here is beautiful. These statues depict the culture of our country India. People of Mangalore should make themselves free and visit the exhibition. These products will surely be useful for every house."
Manikantan, Manager of Poompuhar said, "The exhibition has been organized to provide additional marketing assistance to the artisans. 20 stalls from Odisha, Maharashtra, Punjab, Delhi etc. are here. This is the fourth time we are coming to Mangalore. Every year we get good response from the businessmen. Last year we achieved Rs. 50 lacs sales and this year we are expecting even more."
A statue of Lord Vishnu reclining on Shesha Naga was the main attraction as it was made of an alloy of five metals(Pancha Loha) with antique finish. The price of the statue is Rs 50 lacs. There was a huge branch lamp stand costing Rs 3.5 lacs. Each branch was attached with small bells.
Tamilnadu Handicrafts Development Corporation which was established in 1973 is in charge of the handicrafts sector in the state of Tamilnadu. The main objectives of the Corporation is to preserve the ancient crafts of Tamilnadu and uplift the standard of living of the craftsmen by marketing assistance to the craftsmen of Tamilnadu and other states.
The exhibition has bronze icons, brass oil lamps, Thanjavur art plates and painting, silver and gold plated jewelery, American diamond jewelery, Hyderabad natural pearls, birth stones (shaped and uncut), precious and semi precious stones, fashion jewelery, dress materials, bedspread and pillow covers, Terracotta products, Rudraksham and many more items collected from various states for sale.
More than 20 artisans from various states are directly participating and selling their products.
The exhibition will remain in the city till November 3.