National khadi and saras mahotsav begins in Ranchi

Ranchi: National Khadi and Saras Mahotsav 2024-25 opened its doors at Ranchi's Morabadi Ground on Friday, celebrating India's rich khadi and village industries. The 17-day festival, running from December 20 to January 6, is a collaborative effort of the Jharkhand State Khadi and Village Industries Board and the Jharkhand State Livelihood Promotion Society.
Industry minister Sanjay Prasad Yadav, rural development minister Dipika Pandey Singh and Ranchi MLA C P Singh jointly inaugurated the event. "This Mahotsav demonstrates our commitment to empowering rural communities and preserving traditional crafts," Yadav stated.
A key attraction is the live demonstration of khadi cotton cloth production, offering visitors an insight into traditional craftsmanship. Local resident Anjali Verma said, "Witnessing the khadi-making process has deepened my respect towards our artisans."
The festival hosts over 300 stalls, including 120 dedicated to saras and khadi exhibitors. Organizations like Jharcraft and the Jharkhand Directorate of Handlooms and Handicrafts showcased diverse handmade products, from textiles to handicrafts.
Aimed at boosting the rural economy, the Mahotsav provides artisans a platform to display their skills and reach a broader market. The event also features cultural performances and workshops alongside traditional product sales.
The festival is expected to draw significant crowds, contributing to the region's socio-economic development while preserving and promoting India's traditional craft heritage.