Here's everything you can expect at the Mahalaxmi Saras exhibition this year

Handmade Kantha embroidery by Sarkar

Tucked between the corporate towers of Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) stands Mahalaxmi Saras, an exhibition that empowers women entrepreneurs and self-help groups from across the country, and a haven for lovers of all things handmade. This year, the exhibition hosts close to 500 stalls that showcase everything from handcrafted accessories and pottery to wooden artefacts, sarees and spices sourced from across India.

As this writer walks across the MMRDA Grounds, the gigantic life-sized statues of Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule dwarf the entrance. Inside, a massive air-conditioned tent offers visitors some respite from Mumbai's unforgiving humidity, even as rows of stalls stretch endlessly across the venue. We take a walk through the treasures on display, and curate our picks from this year's edition.

Till May 14; 10 am to 10 pm
At MMRDA Grounds, New Administrative Building, Kolivery Village, Bandra Kurla Complex

The Guide's fave finds

Kantha and cotton sarees from Tripura

A hand-painted and dyed saree

If you are in search of an outstanding fashion statement, forget the MET Gala. Shankari Arun Sarkar is who you should look for. The craftswoman manning the stall reveals, "These sarees usually take a few days depending on the skill of the artisan. But no two sarees ever look alike." Our eyes were glued to the sarees that Sarkar has personally dyed and hand-painted.
Cost Rs 1800 onwards
Stall number C220

Oxidised silver accessories from Satara

If you are fond of statement pieces, whether oxidised or gold-plated, stop by this stall. Nita and Anita Bhosle from Satara show us a striking silver choker set that feels both contemporary and traditional. The collection includes earrings, anklets, hairpins, and rings that double as watches, and every desi girl's staple - bangles.
Cost Rs 150 onwards
Stall number D100

Bohemian statement pieces from Latur

Bohemian necklackes. Pics courtesy/Rumani Gabhare

Latur revives rugged fashion and chunky accessories. This stall features headbands detailed with silver accents alongside tribal-inspired pieces that instantly add character to an outfit.
Cost Rs 1000 onwards
Stall number 322

Home decor from Assam

Sitalpati floral bouquets

Tired of conventional décor pieces? Try these handmade Sitalpati floral bouquets from Assam, crafted using palm leaves. Owner Chitra Basumtary (right) specialises in the craft. She explains, "The technique involves using thin, flexible and naturally cooling reeds from the plant to create intricate floral designs, making them both sustainable and biodegradable."
Cost Rs 750 onwards
Stall number A014

Leather goods from Dharavi

The only leather stall at the venue circles back to Mumbai's Dharavi. The stall is packed with quirky bags and wallets. From sling bags and handbags to belts and purses, the collection covers almost every need. Pro tip: visitors can also request customised pieces.
Cost Rs 400 onwards
Stall number C199