
<p>December 07, 2023 – West Bengal, a treasure trove of rich handicraft traditions, unfolds its vibrant tapestry at the Hasta Shilpa Mela 2023 in Kolkata, an annual fair celebrating the diverse craftsmanship of the region. Running until December 17 at Eco Park in New Town, this event is a haven for those seeking a quick immersion into Bengal&#8217;s cultural and artistic heritage.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>What to Discover</strong></h2>



<p>Craftsmen from across Bengal converge to exhibit their masterpieces. From the iconic Bankura horse, symbolizing the terracotta craft of Panchmura village, to the mesmerizing patachitra scroll paintings, designated as a Geographical Indication (GI) item, the fair offers a comprehensive showcase. Witness live demonstrations of terracotta crafts, connecting with the artisans&#8217; skills.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Captivating Chhau Masks from Purulia</strong></h2>



<p>No visit is complete without acquiring a Chhau mask from Purulia. These distinctive masks, made of pulped paper and clay, portray characters, demons, and deities in vibrant colors. Given the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2018, these masks are not just art; they&#8217;re a cultural narrative.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Handloom Treasures: Santipuri, Dhaniakhali, and Baluchari Sarees</strong></h2>



<p>Bengal&#8217;s handloom sarees, honored with the GI tag, beckon. Choose from the Santipuri, Dhaniakhali, and Baluchari sarees, each a testament to the region&#8217;s exquisite weaving traditions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Innovations and Culinary Delights</strong></h2>



<p>Organized by the Department of Textiles and Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises, the fair seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. Explore stalls featuring vibrant ice cream vans, miniature rickshaws, and quilled figures of beloved comic characters. The gastronomic delights are a journey into Bengali favorites—chops, cutlets, jhal muri, and biryani.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Immersive Experiences and Artistic Encounters</strong></h2>



<p>With hundreds of stalls sprawled around Eco Park&#8217;s Gate 1, immerse yourself in the creative process. Witness artisans at work, adding final touches to masks or weaving traditional shital pati mats. Engage with artists from local colleges offering personalized sketches. And, of course, relish Bengali culinary delights from the food stalls.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Event Details</strong></h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Timings:</strong> 1 pm to 8:30 pm, December 1 to 17</li>



<li><strong>Tickets:</strong> Entry is free</li>



<li><strong>Address:</strong> Eco Park Rd, AA II, Deshbandhu Nagar, Newtown, New Town, West Bengal 700156</li>
</ul>



<p>Embark on a cultural odyssey, exploring the heart of Bengal&#8217;s artisanal brilliance at the Hasta Shilpa Mela 2023.</p>

