Mahakumbh 2025 has become a significant opportunity for artisans across India. Organized on the sacred banks of the Sangam in Prayagraj, this grand event features an exceptional ‘One District, One Product’ (ODOP) exhibition spanning an impressive 6000 square meters. The exhibition showcases products like Firozabad’s glass toys, Banaras’ wooden toys, carpets, zari-zardosi handicrafts, and more, drawing massive attention from visitors.
According to Sharad Tandon, Joint Commissioner of Industries, Prayagraj Division, the Kumbh Mela in 2019 generated business worth ₹4.30 crores. This year, the business potential is expected to soar to ₹35 crores, opening new avenues for trade and employment generation.
Free Platform by Flipkart: Adding to the opportunities, Flipkart has set up a stall at the Mahakumbh, allowing entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their products on its platform without any cost. The stall has already attracted a significant number of visitors and buyers.
Artisans from Kashi (Varanasi) have displayed an array of unique products, including wooden toys, Banarasi brocade, metal repoussé, and metal casting crafts. Dr. Rajnikant, a Geographical Indication (GI) expert, mentioned that 75 GI-tagged products from Uttar Pradesh are being showcased under the ODOP scheme. Out of these, 34 products are from the Kashi region alone, including Varanasi’s red chilies, Banarasi sarees, Pratapgarh’s amla, Mirzapur’s brass utensils, and Gorakhpur’s terracotta crafts. Other highlights include Kushinagar’s carpets and Firozabad’s glass toys and utensils.
Promoting Employment and Innovation: This ODOP initiative is a groundbreaking effort to uplift handicrafts and cottage industries. Mahakumbh 2025 is not just strengthening the country’s spiritual and cultural identity but also serving as a vast platform for entrepreneurs. Visitors from around the world are appreciating, purchasing, and supporting the products made by artisans.
Efforts to Garner Global Recognition for Local Products: Unique creations like Banarasi Thandai, Lal Peda, Banarasi Tabla, and wall paintings are being highlighted to bring them global recognition. This initiative not only celebrates the creativity of artisans but also provides them with a stage to showcase their culture and craftsmanship on both national and international levels.
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