18th Kolkata SARAS Mela (2022–2023)
The 18th edition of the Kolkata SARAS Mela (2022–2023) was a prominent national-level rural craft and livelihood exhibition. Operating under the central framework of Sales of Articles of Rural Artisans Society (SARAS), the fair directly supported women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and traditional rural artisans from over 12 states.
Key Highlights & Attractions
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The Khadi Pavilion: WBKVIB set up specialized institutional stalls featuring premium Project Muslin drapes, certified Khadi cotton shirts, and authentic thematic textiles crafted by rural cooperative societies.
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Village Industries Showcase: Beyond clothing, the board displayed pure village industry products including honey extracted by local cooperatives, organic handicraft items, handcrafted leather footwear, and sustainable utility items.
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Elimination of Middlemen: By ensuring free entry and standardizing government-subsidized stall allotments, the event funneled 100% of the retail sales profit directly back into rural artisan bank accounts.
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Cultural Nights: Every evening, the district cultural information wings hosted performances featuring traditional Baul music, regional folk dances, and street theatre performances to celebrate Bengal's cultural landscape.
Venue & Organization
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Location: New Town Mela Ground (situated near the iconic Biswa Bangla Gate), New Town, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
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Timing: Operating daily from 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM (2022–2023 session).
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Organizer: West Bengal State Rural Livelihoods Mission (WBSRLM) under the Panchayat and Rural Development Department.
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Participant Board: West Bengal Khadi & Village Industries Board (WBKVIB) acted as a major departmental participant, adding institutional scale and providing market access.