To introduce the rich tribal heritage to international audiences, a Tribes India Conclave was organized at Tribes India Aadi Mahotsav in New Delhi’s Dilli Haat on Saturday.
The conclave was organised in association with the Union Ministry of External Affairs.
“The event was attended by around 100 diplomats from more than 20 foreign missions in India besides senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs and other ministries,” the Ministry of Tribal Affairs said in a statement.
The dignitaries included diplomats from over 20 countries such as Poland, Kiribati, South Korea, Mexico, Thailand, Laos, Switzerland, Bangladesh, Maldives, US and Brazil to name a few.
There were delegates from international organizations such as United Nations as well.
The dignitaries took a look at the stalls of the tribal artisans from across the country and showed their keenness to learn more about the unique handicrafts and traditions.
With about 200 stalls on display that showcase products ranging from traditional weaves to jewellery and paintings and toys, the dignitaries were given a glimpse into tribal arts and crafts.
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In addition, there were live demonstrations by artisans on how to make pottery, Lac bangles and Gond paintings. Tribal artisans also performed a live puppet show at the event.
On the occasion, there was also a presentation by TRIFED, wherein the TRIFED officials welcomed the delegates to the Aadi Mahotsav.
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The officials said: “This is a mini tribal India in one place where you can buy the best of tribal handicrafts and produce and sample the best of tribal cuisine and culture.”
“TRIFED is working to bring these tribal artisans and forest dwellers into the mainstream and provide them access to larger markets. 500 such events are organised in an year – some on a smaller scale.”
The presentation dwelled further into the world of tribal artisans and forest dwellers and gave them some insight into the tribal artistic traditions and TRIFED’s initiatives in empowering them and bringing them into the mainstream.
“A lunch for the delegates was also organized where they sampled some exotic tribal dishes such as Mutton Seekh Kebab from Jammu and Kashmir, Fish Pakoraa from Odisha, Chaman Paneer from Jammu and Kashmir, Besankigatteki sabzi from Rajasthan, Mutton and Chicken Banjara Biryani from Telangana, Bajra and Makkeki Roti from Madhya Pradesh and Moong ka halwa from Gujarat,” the statement said.
A special show on tribal handicrafts, handlooms and accessories curated by Gramin Vikas Chethan Sansthan, Barmer has been scheduled for Monday evening.
It will give a glimpse into the rich artistic tradition and craftsmanship of the tribals and showcase their unique products.
The Aadi Mahotsav, a mini-India all under one roof, is a one-stop gifting destination that caters to different types of needs.
The items which are available include jewellery handcrafted in Dokra style to bead necklaces from the Wancho and Konyak tribes of the Northeast to the rich and vibrant textiles and silks, namely Eri silks and Chanderi silks; from colourful puppets and children’s toys to traditional weaves such as Dongria shawls and Bodo weaves.
A separate GI store that features renowned, exquisite items such as Rajasthan’s blue pottery, the Kota Doriya fabric, Madhya Pradesh’s Chanderi and Maheshwari silk, the extremely spicy Naga chilli, and the large cardamom from the North-east can also be visited in the Aadi Mahotsav.
Geographical indication tagging has acquired a greater significance in the past one year ever since the focus has shifted towards Vocal for Local and building an Atmanirbhar Bharat.
TRIFED, Ministry of Tribal Affairs has been facilitating the promotion of GI tag products along with tribal products and transforming them into a brand, symbolizing empowerment of tribal artisans.
These initiatives will also help recognize and promote age-old tribal traditions and methods that is in danger of being lost due to urbanization and industrialization.
Depending on the requirements and budget, these products can be customised into gift hampers. Packaged in premium organic, recyclable, sustainable packing material, designed by renowned designer Ms. Rina Dhaka exclusively for Tribes India, these make for ideal gifts for any occasion.
The Aadi Mahotsav – A Celebration of the Spirit of Tribal Crafts, Culture and Commerce is on at Dilli Haat, INA, New Delhi till February 30, 2021 from 11 am to 9 pm.