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Republic Day invites to embrace the local crafts of South India!

The invites include a curated local craft box from five southern States in collaboration with the National Institute of Design to commemorate the 75th Republic Day.

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Local Samosa
New Update
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Every year, the guests of the Republic Day event and parade in Delhi receive a stiff white card that carries the Lion Capital of Ashoka, the usual format of the invitation card. It is a customary "At Home" reception that is held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Republic and Independence Day. However, this year, to mark the 75th Republic Day, there is an addition of local crafts from the South Indian states. 

The project was spearheaded by NID Bengaluru wherein Susanth C. S. led the initiative. NID Ahmedabad, NID Andhra Pradesh, along with the artisans from across Southern India have also contributed to the project. The invite is nothing but a tribute to the skills and traditions of Southern India’s artisans. Moreover, the crafts ensure the addition of sustainable materials while showcasing India’s rich cultural tapestry. 

Shining local crafts 

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The invite boats the Pochampally Ikat from Telangana. This fabric is popular for its intricate Ikat weaving. It is crafted into a roll-up pencil pouch that blends utility with elegance. The NID Andhra Pradesh, based in Guntur, supervised its production.

Secondly, Andhra Pradesh has contributed with its Etikopakka Toys, vibrant lacquer-coated wooden toys from the Etikoppaka village that symbolise traditional attire and artistry. The Ganjifa Art of Karnataka is another item on display: hand-painted, mythologically themed playing cards. The artisans have converted those to fridge magnets, upholding the essence of Mysore’s rich heritage. 

The southernmost state, Kerala, has also contributed to the invite with the handwoven bookmark crafted by women artisans depicting the mastery of Kerala with weaving screw-pine leaves, which is available in plenty there. The globally-recognised Kancheepuram Silk has taken the form of a luxurious handcrafted pouch that is produced by NID Gandhinagar, Tamil Nadu.

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Apart from this, the invitation box has been crafted with sustainable bamboo while also adorned with Kalamkari motifs and art that exemplifies the eco-conscious style and detailing. The items have been produced in support of the National Bamboo Mission. While it was a challenge to produce the craft due to its intricate components, it was Kerala's bamboo artisans working for it and making it possible.

Not only this, but there are artisans from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, who reportedly completed the work timely under the guidance of administrative efforts of  Viral Rajyaguru and  Ramakrishna Rao. The celebrations of Republic Day are also a rejoicing of culture and India's diverse heritage, this time with the craft of South Indian states.

 

 

 

 

 

Republic Day invites Republic Day invites local crafts