Saras Aajeevika 2.0: culture, cuisine carnival to commence tomorrow

Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 7: The much awaited second edition of Saras Aajeevika mela, set to mesmerize visitors in Srinagar, would commence on October 9th.
Being organized by the Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM), Department of Rural Development & Panchayti Raj, this ten-day extravaganza promises a vibrant celebration of art, craft, culture and cuisine, resonating with the essence of ‘vocal for local’.
The tourists can anticipate an impressive showcase of talent, as over 200 skilled rural women artisans from 17 different states across India will proudly display their exquisite handicrafts, handloom creations and regional culinary delights at Umeed Women’s Haat Boulevard, Dalgate.
Participation has been confirmed from states including Telangana, Chattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, West Bengal, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Meghalaya for Saras Aajevika 2.0.
The fair serves as a direct marketing platform for rural entrepreneurs, empowering them to sell their products without any intervention. This unique opportunity allows rural artisans, craftsmen, and Self-Help Group (SHG) beneficiaries from all over India to showcase and directly sell their products to customers, thereby augmenting their income and gaining significant exposure.
Throughout the duration of Saras mela 2.0, the local artists will enthral art enthusiasts with captivating performances, showcasing rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
The fair strives to promote the art, culture, and traditions of J&K, with a particular emphasis on engaging and inspiring the youth.
Entry to the fair is free for all, and it will be open from 11am to 9.30 pm on selected dates. The event strictly abides by green protocols, promoting the use of cloth bags and paper bags exclusively.
It is worth noting that the first edition of Saras was successfully held in February in Jammu and in March in Srinagar, marking the end of a decade-long hiatus. The event received an overwhelming response from the artisan community nationwide.