Srinagar, August 21, 2025 – The much-anticipated Gandhi Shilp Bazaar has begun at Kashmir Haat, also known as Numaish Gah, in Srinagar, running from August 21 to August 27, 2025. Organized by the Department of Handicrafts and Handlooms, Kashmir, this vibrant exhibition-cum-sale event showcases an exquisite array of authentic handmade products, offering a unique opportunity for locals and visitors to support the ‘Be Vocal for Local’ campaign.The Gandhi Shilp Bazaar is a celebration of India’s rich cultural heritage, featuring a diverse collection of handicrafts and handloom products crafted by skilled artisans from across the country. Highlighting the event is a live demonstration by renowned artisan Manzoor A. Bazaz, whose craftsmanship is expected to captivate attendees.
Visitors are also encouraged to explore the Phulkari stall, where traditional Phulkari wear from Punjab, showcased by artisan Cherry from Bhatinda, is available at affordable prices during a special sale.Following the resounding success of the recent Trainee Product Sale during National Handloom Day, where hand-knotted woollen carpets from the Massive Carpet Scheme sold out rapidly, generating nearly ₹5 lakh in sales, the Department is hosting this high-profile bazaar to further promote authentic Kashmiri handicrafts and other regional crafts. The event also includes a bid-based auction of trainee products from the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT), Srinagar, featuring both silk and woollen carpets.
Visitors can witness live demonstrations of traditional techniques, such as Kani weaving and the rare art of hand-spinning Pashmina, organized by the Department’s School of Designs wing. The bazaar also underscores Srinagar’s prestigious designation as a Craft City by the World Craft Council and a UNESCO Creative City, highlighting its global significance in preserving and promoting traditional crafts.The Gandhi Shilp Bazaar provides a direct marketing platform for artisans, fostering connections with buyers without intermediaries. Attendees can explore a wide range of handmade products, including Kashmiri embroideries, Pashmina shawls, Basohli paintings, and other regional specialties like Phulkari fabrics, Banarsi sarees, Madhubani paintings, and terracotta crafts. The event aligns with the Make in Indiainitiative, offering a unique shopping experience for those seeking authentic, high-quality handicrafts
