The Antaran Exhibit, an initiative of the Tata Trusts, has brought together 12 artisan entrepreneurs from seven clusters across India in Kolkata, offering shoppers, designers and retailers an opportunity to explore handcrafted textiles ahead of the festive season. The three-day exhibition, being held from September 11 to 13 at Vicky Gardens in Hindustan Park, Gariahat, from 11 am to 8 pm, showcases cotton and silk sarees, ikats, hand-painted textiles and traditional loom weaves representing diverse craft traditions.
The exhibit features Jala and Jamdani weaves and Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh, Ikat and Tussar silk from Odisha, and handspun Eri, Muga and Mulberry silks from Assam’s Nalbari, along with cotton and silk textiles from Kamrup. Collections from Nagaland include contemporary home fashion and Naga Skirts woven on traditional backstrap looms, while Bihar’s Madhubani art and textiles are represented by MAATI – The Crafts School. In Kolkata, the exhibition comes at a significant time as demand for distinctive sarees, textiles and handcrafted products typically gains momentum ahead of Durga Puja. The direct interaction between buyers and artisan entrepreneurs also provides designers, boutiques, retailers and brands with sourcing opportunities beyond conventional retail channels.
Antaran works with underserved artisan ecosystems to create direct market access, nurture independent creative enterprises and support sustainable livelihoods while preserving traditional craft practices.