This platform is celebrating unique Indian crafts this weekend in Mumbai

The artwork for Kalaangan. Pics courtesy/Ekibeki Association

Set against the backdrop of the historic Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Kalaangan returns with its second edition to make Indian craft traditions feel lived-in rather than locked away as heritage. Organised by EkiBeki, the exhibition will bring together artisans from across the country for a weekend of craft showcases, workshops, performances and conversations rooted in storytelling and tradition.

Bohada mask

The souvenir shelf

The exhibition will feature handwoven Jamdani sarees from West Bengal, Banjara embroidery from Rajasthan, Dhokra jewellery from Odisha, Bohada masks from Maharashtra, and leather puppetry along with handcrafted stationery, home décor, and jewellery sourced directly from artisans.

Attendees participate in a Rajasthani Mandana workshop led by Vidya Devi Soni (centre, in red)

For founder Vishpala Hundekari, Kalaangan is less an exhibition and more the result of the collaboration with craftsmen. "We have been working with these artisans for nearly two decades, for us craft isn't about money, and for them, it's about keeping traditions alive."

Visitors check out handmade jewellery at a previous edition

Mahalaxmi-based EkiBeki works with artisans on design upskilling, helping adapt traditional forms for contemporary buyers without stripping them of their identity. Monisha Sen from EkiBeki shared how one artisan refused to believe she was being paid Rs 17,000 in royalties after her artwork was adapted into products.

What to expect?

Aditi Mirvankar Thomas in a still from Tolagi Gopa Dhanda

Alongside the stalls, the exhibition will also host workshops on Odisha Pattachitra coaster-making, Gond diary painting, palm-leaf etched bookmarks, and Banjara embroidery charm-making. Other unique workshops include brass cutwork from Gujarat, Gollabhama sarees from Andhra Pradesh and Sohrai painting from Jharkhand.

Vishpala Hundekari in a Gollabhama saree

The two-day festival will also feature performances such as Bhooka-a Warli by Sanket Pethkar, musical storytelling by Baithak Foundation called Jatan, and an Odissi presentation by Aditi Mirvankar Thomas titled Tolagi Gopa Dhanda, narrating Krishna's playful exchanges with Radha through dance and expression.

On May 22 to 24; 10 am to 6.30 pm
At Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan, Byculla West.
Log on to @ekibeki_india or @bdlmuseum