The third edition of Gandhi Shilp Baazar 2026 at International Centre Goa, Dona Paula, showcases tribal handicrafts and artefacts from across India
KALYANI JHA | NT BUZZ
If you’ve been to the Gandhi Shilp Bazaar before, this edition feels different from the start. The usual mix of commercial handicrafts is missing and at the International Centre Goa (ICG), the stalls are run entirely by Scheduled Tribe (ST) artisans. The exhibition is organised under the National Handicraft Development Programme (NHDP) and the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts).
Handicraft Commissioner Saji Prabhakaran explains the initiative aims to provide greater exposure and access to new markets. “The bazaar has 70 artisans from eight states, including the Northeast, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, spread across 70 stalls,” he said, adding that several crafts are being introduced to Goa audiences for the first time.”
Many participants come from remote areas with limited access to national fairs. “Government schemes support their participation through travel assistance, a daily allowance and help with transporting materials,” said Prabhakaran.
These participants were selected through an open national application process, with entries invited through field offices. He added, “Some chose Goa for its market potential. A few have taken part in exhibitions here earlier and are familiar with the response.”
The display includes Gond paintings from Madhya Pradesh, known for their storytelling motifs inspired by nature and folklore, along with Assam’s Mekhala Chador textiles, jute crafts, Mooj grass products from Uttarakhand, Banjara embroidery from Maharashtra and woodcraft from Meghalaya.
Previous editions were held at the Kala Academy, Panaji. This year, with the venue unavailable, organisers moved the bazaar to Dona Paula, closer to hotel clusters. He said, “We could not get dates at Kala Academy. This location allows visitors staying nearby to attend.”
Looking ahead, the organisers plan to expand the event if the format proves successful and may also link it with tourism and cultural activities, including travel, food and crafts. “With support from departments like tourism and forest, it can be expanded further,” he added.
(The Bazaar is on until March 24, from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the International Centre Goa, Dona Paula.)
