The eagerly anticipated Dastkar Haat has once again graced the city of Hyderabad, bringing with it an exquisite array of crafts such as beads, glass jewellery, miniature toys, and saris. This display of artistic prowess has amassed a significant following among the Hyderabad locals, who make it a point to attend and admire the country’s diverse handicrafts.
Upon entering the exhibition, visitors are welcomed by the enchanting melodies of live Rajasthani folk music—an auditory treat that immediately immerses them in the vibrant cultural experience. Amidst the tunes, the rhythmic clinking of metal can be heard as craftsmen intricately shape scrap pieces into charming toy cars, birds, and insects. Not far from these metal maestros, other artisans proudly present their stunning ceramic works, inviting admirers to take home their creations—which range from household crockery starting at ₹100 to vibrant ceramic bowls, free of any purchase limits.
At the corner stands the Kadam Haat stall, promising an infusion of style and sustainability with its eco-friendly bag collection. These fashion statements, fashioned from sabai grass, complement the high-end sheetal pati totes, with prices beginning at ₹1,000. In close proximity, artistically crafted bags of varying shapes and sizes made from repurposed plastic wrappers beckon shoppers. This stall not only offers eye-catching accessories but also teaches the valuable lesson of repurposing plastic to avoid adding to landfill burdens. Prices at this eco-conscious haven start from ₹1,200.
For silk enthusiasts, there is a delightful assemblage of stalls vending silk saris and materials, dyed naturally and adorned with hand embroideries. Rajasthan’s Shibori stall, in particular, showcases saris with delicate needle punch designs that have become the talk of the town.
Inventiveness continues to thrive at the haat; Jagadish’s stall presents a truly distinctive collection of home décor crafted from organic waste such as banyan leaves, ridge gourd bath sponges, and even onion and garlic peels. These unexpected materials have resulted in an abundance of attention from buyers. Jagadish takes the time to elucidate the intricate processes behind his creations, with the preservation of the banyan leaves’ vein network being the highlight of his impressive work, all executed with a refined and neutral color palette.
For those captivated by the essence of traditional Indian craftsmanship, look no further than the beautifully designed board games by Pallet, perfect for journeys. These games come with hand-painted, magnetized stone coins that showcase meticulous artwork, warranting the investment of every rupee. Additionally, a stall from Rajasthan presents goods crafted from elephant poop paper—a prime example of innovative recycling.
The Upcycled Denim stall offers a sustainable approach to fashion. Bring old jeans back to life with their repertoire—a line of sturdy, stylish, and eco-friendly bags, caps, toys, and jewelry.
Furthermore, the Dastkari Haat doesn’t fall short in catering to jewelry aficionados. It boasts a variety of stalls selling unique pieces crafted from cloth, shells, silver, metal, stone, and glass. These intricate designs, crafted by skilled artisans, are distinguished by their unmistakable Indian essence, setting them apart from typical exhibition fare.
Home improvement enthusiasts will also find themselves enticed, with a dizzying array of dhurries that tempt one’s interior design impulses.
This year’s Dastkari Haat is positioned at NITHM, Gachibowli, and runs daily from 11 am to 8 pm, concluding on February 11. Don’t miss the chance to partake in this cultural celebration and perhaps take home a piece of India’s rich artisanal heritage.
