''Adharam Madhuram, Vadanam Madhuram...", the beauty of Krishna. Odissi dance by Orissa Dance Academy led by Ms. Aruna Mohanty.

Kerala Artisans' Development Corporation, Craft Mela at VJT Hall

Simultaneously there are three craft exhibitions going on in Thiuvananthapuram this week. I had already reported about the Gandhi Shilp Bazaar at Kanakakunnu. The other one is the Kerala Artisans' Development Corporatio's Craft Mela at the VJT Hall.

Bangles in Boxes                                                                                                            Bangles on stand

Tribal art from Orissa - ceramic on canvas

 Orissa art - applique

Saura paintings from Koraput, Odissa

Today, my quest for cultural knowledge led me to the Orissa Crafts fair at the iconic VJT Hall, Palayam. The above picture is of a 'Saura' Tribal painting from Koraput District, Odissa. I learn that the Suaras are one of the oldest tribes in the sub-continent. They have been mentioned even in the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Their paintings invariably have some religious significance. The above painting is on tussore silk and was being offered for Rs 7000.

Most artisans or traders who come to sell such handicraft items are not good salesmen. If they can give the background, history, ethnicity, intricacy, exclusivity and significance of these works, I am sure there will be more takers. It can also give the buyer a 'story' to share with her friends and create word-of-mouth publicity. If the artisans themselves are not good communicators, they can be aided by brief leaflets or presentations. Small versions of these can also be inserted into the packaging for the buyer to take home. A certificate of authenticity by any credible (sounding) body can also enhance the value.

Applique works from Puri Dt.

Migrant Labourers

On a Sunday morning, if you visit the Gandhi park in front of East Fort, you will wonder if you have walked into a high school examination centre. The park is full of young boys in the 15-25 age group and talking in language alien to this state. These are the migrant construction labourers from Bengal and Orissa, who are having their weekend respite. This is also occasion to meet friends, exchange news about home, and about new job opportunities. Some had come with their frugal belongings; perhaps new arrivals trying for a place to shack up. Some were in the ice cream parlour while others were busy filling up Money order forms . The reluctance of the local workers to take up jobs at competitive rates and terms has thrown up an opportunity for the migrant labourers from other states. One is not, however, sure about the living and working conditions of these workers.