SHILLONG, March 16: Curtain came down on the Craft Bazaar 2026 at the State Central Library on Friday, marking the end of a cultural platform for artisans from across the Northeast.
Organised by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Shillong, the event was part of a broader three-day initiative aimed at strengthening the regional craft ecosystem.
The programme began on March 11 with an artisan awareness workshop at the Umsawli campus, which focused on design intervention, branding and entrepreneurial development. This was followed by live demonstrations where master artisans shared traditional skills in cane and bamboo, wood carving and weaving with students.
During the closing ceremony, Daphiralin Kharjana, Managing Director of the Meghalaya Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation (MHHDC), noted, “Meghalaya has taken important steps to recognise to celebrate its cultural heritage by identifying several villages as art and craft villages, each known for its unique traditional skill. These villages represent the diversity of artistic traditions in the state and remind us that crafts are deeply rooted in the identity and cultural life of our communities.”
On the other hand, Rima Sonar, Assistant Director (Handicrafts) at the Ministry of Textiles, appreciated NIFT’s role in organising “platforms such as Craft Bazaar, which play a vital role in preserving traditional knowledge.”
Meanwhile, Rimi Das, Joint Director of NIFT Shillong, added that “NIFT aims to blend tradition with innovation, preserving craft ecosystems. Each handmade product at NIFT Craft Bazar carries with it a story- a story of heritage, patience, creativity, and dedication.”
Director of NIFT Shillong, Dr. Brijesh Deore, stated that the initiative reflects the institute’s commitment to the Northeast.
He added that “by bringing all stakeholders together, the event encourages meaningful dialogue between tradition and contemporary design.”
The bazaar featured a diverse range of products, including handloom textiles, Larnai pottery, Eri silk weaving and indigenous musical instruments.
Notable participants included 1998 National Awardee Manendra Deka and State Awardee Dardeny Sangma.
The event concluded with a heritage walk featuring regional textiles and accessories styled by NIFT faculty and students.
