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 “The unity of our arts, their oneness of spirit
and influence are our nation’s hallmark. I would urge the artistes,
irrespective of the medium, to dedicate themselves to preserve the
rich cultural heritage and cultural unity of our nation”, said the
Governor of Tamil Nadu, Surjit Singh Barnala today at the
inauguration of the Indian Crafts Journey and Dastkari Haat held at
Kalakshetra, Thiruvanmiyur.
The Multi-Media exhibition of artistic maps (The
Indian Crafts Journey) and Crafts Bazaar (Dastkari Haat) is
organised by Dastkari Haat Samiti and Kalakshetra foundation. The
ten-day exhibition, which was inaugurated today, is on till March 2.
This fair is held as part of the birth anniversary celebration of
its founder Rukmini Devi.
The Governor said that the feeling of unity is
not only reinforced by geographical unity, but there is a unity in
diversity. “A unity of diverse cultures, arts, crafts and above all
a unity in hearts has made us stand together against all divisive
forces”, he added.
He also said that the country is rich in arts,
which differ from region to region and spoke about the various
paintings including Kalamkari, Nathdwara of Rajasthan, Puria of
Orissa and miniature paintings of various states. “All arts and
crafts have their own aesthetic and artistic value embedded with a
fine blend of exemplary handiwork”, Barnala said.
According to him, the Indian Crafts Journey would
provide the people of Tamil Nadu a unique cultural experience.
 Speaking on the occasion, Jaya Jaitly, President,
Dastkari Haat Samiti, said that it took around ten years to complete
the artistic maps of the states of the country. There are 27 maps,
leaving the states of Chhattisgarh, Uttranchal and Jharkhand. These
maps are useful in disaster management to find out where the craft
persons are located, in order to provide them food and help, she
said.
She further stated, “The Indian Crafts Journey is
a journey into the creative soul of India. The craftsmen bring us
back to roots and teach us dignity and honesty”.
Leela Samson, Director, Kalakshetra Foundation
said that there are around 75 artisans from all over the country
exhibiting their products.
Some of the products include Cloth Paintings,
block paintings, Jewelleries and Accessories, Wooden crafts,
Pottery, Leather and Paper Mache products. The Exhibition reflects
the spirit of Kalakshetra in its truest sense.
U.Bakialakshmi
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