BHUBANESWAR: Shoppers and craft connoisseurs were spoilt for choice at Sisira Sarasa fair at Exhibition ground here Monday. Known to be one of the finest crafts fair organised by ORMAS and Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department, the mela witnessed a footfall of around 85,000 footfalls on its fourth day.
‘Sabai ghasa’ craftworks seem to have captured the fancy of city dwellers. Various furniture items made out of this rare raw material are available at the fair. For the first time ever, three transgenders have showcased home-made perfumes, conch shells and other lifestyle items at the expo.
Around 302 stalls are set up at the fair with an ORMAS themed stall of Sabai Ghasa. A two-member group from Mayurbhanj has created home-made furniture, dining sets, bathroom mats and bowls among other things.
Communication co-ordinator of the fair Soumya Ranjan Biswal said, “Around 612 artistes are here to showcase their products. We have a unique stall where only traditional Odia food is being served. One can find various types of pancakes, dalma, prawn curry, chhatu besara and much more.”
Furniture maker Srimati Dhala said, “I am earning around 4-5 k a month through which I can help my child to get a good education. I am very happy that I am self-employed now.”
The food joints also boasts delicious cuisines. From Marwari to Hyderabadi, visitors can find items from all regions of the country here. Anushuya Mallick, a resident of Aathagarh, said, “I am too tired of regular food. Hence, I am here with my husband and daughter to have a good Hyderbadi meal Dum Pokht Chicken Biriyani.”
Artist Annata Maharana who has been making vases for decorations has sold at least 40 vases in the last three days. Jamuna Bai of Rajasthan has sold 65 Lehengas and Chaniya choli in the last two days as the demand for traditional clothes is pretty high.
Food and handicrafts are not the only attractions of the fair. Country-made and tribal medicinal items have also attracted buyers to the fair. From Juani to Neem Oil, these herbal products feature at the fair in large numbers. A traditional Baidya (doctor) is also available at each of these stalls who prescribes medicines according to a person’s aliment.
Beautiful flowers made of waste plastic seem to have made an impression on denizens. One can spend a whole day observing flower counters there is a lot of variety. Jasmine Rath, a student and part-time model, said, “The Toshali National Crafts Mela is conducted at a place far away from the central area of the city. Hence, I chose to come here with my college friends for a good treat and to buy some household utensils for my mother who is very fond of cooking.”
Sellers and buyers are having an engaging field day at the fair. Various cultural programmes like dance, music and fashion shows are also being conducted to keep the visitors entertained. Sisira Saras 2019 is certainly proving to be the busiest of all fairs of the winter season.