Craft, couture & curated finds: Kolkata comes alive with Naboborsho exhibits

As a prelude to Naboborsho, Kolkata has been humming with festive energy at exhibitions over the past fortnight. From handloom saris, breezy cotton shirts, and chikankari sets in soft hues to quirky jewellery, bold bindis, aroma candles, embroidered cushion covers, and handcrafted ceramic artefacts, these spaces housed everything that makes for thoughtful gifting and effortless wardrobe refreshes.Craft meets contemporaryWhat: Daksha- Crafting Voices 2026by BANGLANATAK.COM Where: Daga Nikunj, ALKA JALAN FOUNDATIONWhat was it about: The pop-up had it all. From Kotpad textiles, Sabai and Kashi grass, terracotta, Home decor pieces made of Dokra and bamboo, Chhau and wooden masks, Kantha, PatachitraAn edit of artisanal eleganceWhat: Pink Gulab, curated by Mohua ChatterjeeWhere: Kanoria Hall What was it about: The pop-up offered a wide range of items, from sabeki & silver jewellery, dokra artefacts to cottons, Kanjeevaram saris, artsy gifting options, modal silk shirts, ceramic jewellery, and statement bindis. There were two stalls from Santiniketan as wellThis pop-up is my way of creating a platform that celebrates handicraft brands and the artisans behind them, while keeping traditional craftsmanship alive– Mohua ChatterjeeBy women, for women What: Built By Her, curated by Keya Biswas Where: 32 Chowringhee Road What was it about: The vibrant, women-led exhibition celebrated of creativity and entrepreneurship. It offered a curated mix of women-led brands across fashion, lifestyle, wellness, handcrafted and handloom products. The packed stalls were complemented by live culinary showcases, mixology classes, art demonstrations, and live DJ setsI loved this initiative, it offers such a beautiful display of craftsmanship. It’s lovely to see so many talented women come together– Usha UthupSeasonal moodsWhat: Spring Sale, presented by Dipti by Aankhi Bhattacharya Where: IAS Officers’ ResidencyWhat was it about: The exhibition was a curated showcase of contemporary fashion and craft, offering a wide range of handcrafted designs. From traditional jewellery and summer-friendly weaves to wedding-ready drapes like Benarasis and Patolas, it had it all. The stalls also featured clutches and ceramic artefacts, covering everything from gifting to dressing up