Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)
Udupi, Apr 8: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kurma Rao, inaugurated the 19th edition of Namma Angadi, a three-day long exhibition-cum-sale organised by the master’s division of Manipal Institute of Communication on Friday, April 8 at MIC campus, Manipal here.
Speaking on the occasion, DC Kurma Rao said, "This is a very useful programme for the rural artisans in terms of marketing their hand made products. Moreover, it is the 19th edition, which means, it is not so easy to run for such a long time. MIC is doing a great job and it acts as a bridge between the artisans and the customers. Rural artisans themselves get the materials and produce everlasting products. How we make it economically viable and marketing it to the common public is more important. These kind of programmes will help to reduce the gap between rural people and the urban buyers."
In addition, DC said, “Udupi is a very unique and diverse district. One side we have Coastal belt and on the other, Western Ghats, rich religious heritage. Hence, there is a lot of potential to promote our local heritage. Thus, we can attract tourists by showcasing our diverse culture as well." He wished the best to the MIC students.
Shanmukha Anagh, project manager, motivated the people present there to do their bit supporting and celebrating the artisans' skills and provide them with a platform to showcase their talent. He said, “The world is a difficult place to get through and we’re fortunate enough to have a stronger starting point than children that don’t have.”
Speaking on the earthiness and the local nature of the event, MIC director Dr Padma Rani expressed joy on the event happening offline for the first time in two years since the pandemic and mentioned that its being conducted on the 25th year anniversary of the institute. “The purpose behind this is to promote our local artisans and be vocal for the locals,” she said.
Shivanand Shetty, assistant director, Centre for Working Children, pointed at the human resource that we have in India. "There is a lack of skilled or trained people for promoting rural artisans. The government should provide helping hands to those who really need economic support." He also described their working system and marketing. "There are people in rural regions, who lag behind in getting markets for their products'" he added.
The three-day of event will conclude on April 10. There are a wide range of products from home decor to summery dresses to their newest launch. The kids' clothing is launching for the first time ever and the collection is made of materials like Jaipuri cotton and Kalamari. There are some décor items made out of mud, bamboo, paddy, wood that are attracting the visitors.
Sowparnika Attavar, faculty coordinator of the event and students of the institute were present on the occasion.
Daijiworld.com and Daijiworld TV 24x7 are the media partners for the three-day event.