Shilp Samagam Mela 2025 showcases India’s crafts and culture
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
Bengaluru: The much-awaited Shilp Samagam Mela 2025 opened at Freedom Park, Bengaluru, celebrating India’s extraordinary heritage of crafts, culture, and community artistry. Organized by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (SJE) in collaboration with TULIP, the 10-day mela will run from September 5 to 14, 2025.
A marketplace of tradition and innovation
This year’s edition features 75 stalls displaying handicrafts from over 13 states, including intricate metalwork, wooden artifacts, cane and bamboo products, pottery and ceramics, textiles and handwoven treasures. The mela provides artisans not only with a platform to showcase their skills but also with access to urban and international buyers.
Inclusive representation of communities
The Shilp Samagam highlights the craftsmanship of artisans from Scheduled Castes (SCs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and Safai Mitras, reflecting the inclusive ethos of the event.
Dignitaries at the inauguration
The mela was inaugurated by Dr. Virendra Kumar, Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, in the presence of Ramdas Athawale, Minister of State, SJE; P.C. Mohan, Member of Parliament, Bengaluru Central; Senior officials of SJE and Karnataka’s Social Welfare Department and Artisans and cultural representatives
Evenings of living heritage
Beyond crafts, the mela transforms into a cultural festival each evening, featuring folk dances, traditional music and storytelling performances. These programs immerse visitors in India’s living traditions and diverse cultural expressions.
Celebration of unity in diversity
Organizers emphasized that Shilp Samagam Mela is more than a craft fair—it is a celebration of India’s unity in diversity, ensuring that every artisan’s story is heard, every tradition honoured, and every craft valued.
