New Delhi, Feb 22 (KNN) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh formally inaugurated the Hunar Haat on Sunday of indigenous artisans and craftsmen from across the country at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. It is the 26th Hunar Haat on the theme of “Vocal for Local” from 20th February to 01st March 2021 organised by the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs.

On the occasion, Rajnath Singh said that “every region of the country has an amazing talent and brilliance. The artisans of Hunar Haat are not only “Ustad” of art and craft; they are also “Ustad” of destiny. Hunar Haat has been playing an important role in strengthening the country’s economy.”

He said the government is promoting the indigenous artisans and craftsmen of the country. “Hunar Haat” brings together indigenous artisans and craftsmen from across the country. It is a beautiful exhibition of our traditional art and craft and more importantly our "cultural mosaic". Hunar Haat is doing branding of the traditional legacy of artisans, craftsmen.

Hunar Haat is playing an important role in Aatmnirbhar Bharat. It has turned Corona pandemic into an opportunity for “Vocal for Local”. Artisans, craftsmen continued production of their indigenous products which were provided market and opportunities through “Hunar Haat”, he added.

Lok Sabha MP Meenakshi Lekhi graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. Secretary, Union Minority Affairs Ministry, P. K. Das, other senior officials and dignitaries were also present on the occasion.  

More than 600 artisans and craftsmen from more than 31 states and UTs are participating in the Hunar Haat in New Delhi. Artisans and craftsmen from across the country are participating in Hunar Haat at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium for display and sale of their exquisite indigenous handmade products.

Exquisite indigenous handmade products such as Applique work, dry flowers, jute-cane, brass products, wooden and clay toys, Ajrakh Block Print, Blue Art Pottery, Pashmina Shawl, Khadi products, Banarsi Silk, Wooden Furniture, Chikankari Embroidery, Chanderi Silk, Lac bangles, Rajasthani jewellery, Phulkari, Oil Painting, Leather products, Khurja pottery, Sandalwood artefacts from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, jute products from West Bengal etc are available for sale and display at Hunar Haat.  

The visitors are also enjoying traditional delicacies from every region of the country at “Bawarchikhana” section. 

Besides, the people are also enjoying different cultural and musical programmes being presented by renowned artists of the country at the Hunar Haat in New Delhi. Renowned artists such as Vinod Rathore (21 Feb); Nizami Brothers (24 Feb); Sudesh Bhonsle (26 Feb); Kailash Kher (27 Feb); Shibani Kashyap (01 March) and others will present their programmes.

On the occasion, Union Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said that the Hunar Haat, which is a perfect platform to promote indigenous products of artisans and craftsmen from across the country, has provided employment and employment opportunities to more than 5 lakh artisans, craftsmen and artists yet.

The Union Ministry of Minority Affairs will provide employment and employment opportunities to 7 lakh 50,000 artisans and craftsmen through 75 Hunar Haat which will be organised by the completion of 75 years of the country’s independence.