Bishnupur in West Bengal is known for its terracotta art. To know more about the traditional craft, drop in at the Terracotta Festival being held at the Panchmura village, near Bishnupur, about 150 km from Kolkata. Shoppers who delight in ethnic art-ware can choose from a range of traditional toys, small household artefacts, decorative items, and jewellery, all made of terracotta; the long-necked horse seen in the Central Cottage Industries Emporium’s logo is a typical toy manufactured here. The artists’ homes double up as their studios; see the artisans at work and may be pick up a tip or two from them. The fair is being organised by the local association of artisans in collaboration with a non-government organisation. The MSME&T (Government of West Bengal) and UNESCO have joined hands to develop this place as a Rural Craft Hub to be managed by the artists themselves.
What: Terracotta Mela
Where: Panchmura village, Bankura district, West Bengal
When: Fair will be held from October 31, 11 am to November 2, 4pm; folk festival on October 31 and November 1, 6-10pm
Contact: banglanatak@gmail.com