The enchanting world of silk, where colours blend seamlessly into delicate threads, where the artistry of silk farmers, fashion designers, scientists, and artisans is woven into a tapestry of tradition, has come alive at the ‘UP State Mega Expo 2023.’ The grand inauguration of this unique and exquisite exposition took place on Friday at the Indira Gandhi Institute in Gomti Nagar.
What sets this event apart is the convergence of every variety of silk from all over the country in one grand showcase. Whether it’s the resplendent Pochampally from Tamil Nadu, the opulent Kanjivaram and Mysore Silk from Karnataka, the charming Chanderi from Madhya Pradesh, the iconic Banarasi Silk from Uttar Pradesh, the intricate Paithani from Maharashtra, the exotic Muga and Eri Silk from Assam, or the exquisite Tussar Silk from Jharkhand – all can be found under one roof at the UP State Mega Expo 2023.
To facilitate the silk connoisseurs, special discounts have been offered, ensuring that budget constraints don’t deter the joy of silk shopping. The UP State Mega Expo 2023, organized collectively by the Silk Directorate, Central Silk Board, Khadi and Village Industries Board, Handloom and Textiles Industry Department, Matikala Board, and O.D.O.P. M.S.M.E. Department, not only promotes the trade and investment but also showcases a vibrant mix of cultures.
In an effort to increase the attraction of the fair, especially for tourists, the Department of Tourism and Culture has arranged daily cultural programs presented by traditional artists in the evening.
The expo features around 200 stalls for exhibitions and brick-and-mortar stores, where weavers, cooperatives, and artisans from the Handloom and Textiles Industry Department will sell their products. The Central Silk Board (Government of India) has also set up shops representing various states, including Karnataka’s Kanjivaram and Mysore, Tamil Nadu’s Pochampally, Madhya Pradesh’s Chanderi Silk, and more.
A grand fashion show, organized by the Khadi and Village Industries Board and the Silk Department, will also showcase the allure of silk, as models sashay down the ramp wearing handwoven garments.
The expo’s highlight is the presentation of the “Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Resham Ratna Samman” to individuals who have made significant contributions to the silk industry. During the event, 16 exceptional individuals selected by the Silk Department will receive this prestigious award.
Furthermore, the Silk Department will launch the “Resham Mitra Portal,” designed to provide transparency and online services to beneficiaries, along with the release of the “Resham Mitra Patrika.” The Khadi and Village Industries Board and Matikala Board has also planned to distribute toolkits to their beneficiaries.
The ‘UP State Mega Expo 2023’ promises to be a vibrant celebration of India’s silk heritage, bringing together the diverse and rich traditions of silk weaving while honoring those who have played pivotal roles in this industry.