Heritage is important as it provides a link to our past, preserving cultural, historical, and social experiences. It fosters a sense of identity, unity, and collective memory, promoting social cohesion. Heritage also serves as a valuable educational resource, offering insights into traditions, values, and lessons from previous generations.
Over the course of 6 days from 20th June to 25th June 2023, “Daksha – Crafting Voices” at Birla Academy of Art and Culture, showcased a magnificent display of traditional handicrafts infused with a touch of contemporary styling. The exhibition hall was buzzing with art enthusiasts from all walks of life, creating an incredible atmosphere every single day.
In addition to the exquisite crafts, the visitors enjoyed Baul songs, Pater Gaan, Rabha Song and Dance, and Chadar Badar. On the 5th day they launched a film on Chadar Badar, a captivating tribal puppetry art form which added another layer of appreciation for this beautiful art form. The talented Chadar Badar artists from Bardhaman districts also graced the event with their presence and brought their exquisite art to life. The cultural richness and diversity showcased during these performances left everyone enthralled to witness the remarkable display of artistry.
Along with the exhibition also featured two panel discussions “Craft and Hospitality” and “Craft for Gennext.”
The first-panel discussion was on “Craft and Hospitality” on 21st June.
The Panelists were Sirla Chatterjee, Founder of Baro Market, Darshan Dudhoria is the owner and director of Bari Kothi Heritage Hotel, Partho Kar, Chief Consultant of Biswa Bangla, Raj Gope is the Design Lead at Reliance Retail Ltd, an alumnus of NIFT, Kolkata and London College of Fashion, London and Samiran Banik, the Principal & Design Director of Indecorus and Member of ABID and Sunil Kumar, General Manager of JW Marriott.
The second-panel discussion was on 23rd June on Crafts for Gennext! The Panelists are Dr.Vishal Chandrakant Bhand is the Associate Professor of Silpa Sadana at Viswa Bharati University, Mitul Das is the CEO and & Strategy Head of UrsDigitally, the digital arm of Max Mobility, Meghna Nayak is the founder of LataSita and Dr. Sreenanda Palit and Ayan Dutta, the Director of Natural Fibre.
Daksha Crafting Voices, a transformative event that harnessed the potential of rural artisans and connected them with opportunities in the interior design, hospitality and gifting sectors. Perfectly aligning with this year’s theme of “Future-ready MSMEs for India@100” Daksha was an inspiring event that empowered micro, small, and medium enterprises, making them future-ready for India ensuring a remarkable transition from village industry to Small and Medium Enterprises.
Through its showcase of mesmerizing handicrafts, this event not only spread awareness about the cultural beauty of West Bengal but also served as a catalyst for micro, small, and medium enterprises to thrive, creating a lasting impact and preserving cultural traditions. This event encouraged, celebrated and nurtured the cultural heritage.
