Southern Handicrafts focal point at IHGF (Spring) 2007

New Delhi, Feb 23 (UNI) The 23rd edition of Indian Handicrafts and Gifts Fair (IHGF) has for the first time set up a separate theme pavilion with focus on handicrafts from Southern India region.

''In the past handicrafts products from South Indian states and other regions of the country have been displayed by individual companies in a scattered manner over the entire IHGF,'' says Mr Rakesh Kumar, Executive Director, Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH), organisers of the five-day fair.

He explained that this thematic display showcases exclusive products ranging from each Southern State. Products selected for display in this theme are those which have growing export potential and increasing import demand.

Karnataka is highlighting Kolhapuri chappals, banjara embroidery, banana fiber furniture and products, wooden carved doors&panels, vegetable dyed lacquerware, terracotta and bidriware, agarbatties&perfumed products; Tamilnadu is concentrating on wooden, stone&bronze crafts, furniture, wooden carvings ; Andhra Pradesh is putting focus on crocheted products like table cloths, curtains&bed spreads, Kalamkari products, Warangal dhurries whereas Kerala has highlighted coir products, jute dhurries, and coconut ice cream cups, coirmats and cotton lace works etc.

The major exhibitors from the Southern states include- Rani Arts&Crafts, Mahalsa Designer Doors, South India Producer Associations and Modesty.

Describing the special focus on handicrafts from Southern states, Mr Kumar said, ''The crafts from Karnataka, Tamilnadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala are truly reflective of the Indian culture and heritage, traditions and ethnic styles, colours and designs.'' These products are distinct from products of similar raw material base from other regions of India.

In fact the influence of ancient Indian culture, religion, customs and practices is very dominant on these handicrafts. The products are expected to find a good market amongst those buyers who are looking for truly Indian ethnic products.

It is expected that thematic display from Southern region will further boost the export of handicrafts from India.

The Indian Handicrafts&Gifts Fair held biannually at the India Expo Centre&Mart, Greater Noida Expressway in the National Capital Region of Delhi is one of the most important sourcing show for the global buyers in the area of handicrafts, giftware, textiles and decorative etc.

The top brand names amongst departmental stores, buying houses, retail houses, catalogue houses, importers and wholesalers from all over the world have been sourcing their requirement at the event.

UNI