The Mahalaxmi Saras Utsav 2009-2010, is more than just a place to look for a good bargain. It's your chance to appreciate the rich, cultural diversity of India across several states
The Mahalaxmi Saras Utsav 2009-2010, is more than just a place to look for a good bargain. It's your chance to appreciate the rich, cultural diversity of India across several states
Mahalaxmi Saras Utsav, the rural handicrafts fair, is back, and by all accounts is bigger, better and more bargain-friendly.
The big idea is to provide village entrepreneurs with a platform to sell their products. And what better place for that than amchi Mumbai: the government-sanctioned commercial hub of the country.
Ignore the drone emanating from the loudspeaker once you are inside the Bandra Reclamation Grounds; you're on a mission and it doesn't pay to be distracted.
The first stall has hand-made table cloths, bedspreads, quilts, pillow covers and cloth bags on display from Rajasthan.
What's available?
The pride taken by the stall owners in doing up their individual stalls is apparent. Most of the merchandise is value-for-money, and a bit of bargaining could get you a pair of Orissa's famous stunning silver filigree earrings at a cracker of a price.
On sale are exquisite Chanderi sarees from Uttar Pradesh, multi-hued, quilted bed and pillow covers from Jammu-Kashmir, cane lampshades from West Bengal and pouches and clutches with a liberal sprinkling of sequins and threadwork from Hyderabad, silk stoles from Uttar Pradesh and various artifacts from at least half the country to choose from.
The Kolhapuri chappals from (where else?) Kolhapur is one of the cuter stalls. The chappals are available in sizes 4 to 12 and prices start from Rs 90 and go up to Rs 800.
u00a0
Apart from the classic pair made from processed leather, you can find variety in terms of adornment including gold cord, zari strips, pom-poms and gota.
The Awaaz Kapsi pair is the most expensive since they make a loud, crushing noise every time you walk. Why would you want to wear Kolhapuris that make sounds, you may wonder.
The idea behind it, though primitive, is to warn animals and snakes of your presence, while taking a stroll in the wilderness. Available at Rs 20, the miniature Kolhapuri chappal key chains make for quaint momentos.
Enjoy local cuisine and Folk Culture
The food area is pretty massive with stalls that seem to run endlessly on either side. Apart from the familiar image of mounds of fried sev crowned with tomatoes, lemons and chillies, most of the food served here is stuff the artisans eat at home.
Bajre ki Roti, Chicken Fry, Machchi Fry and Anda Curry are among the staple fare here. Prices for a thali average around Rs 30 for two rotis, rice, dal, two veggies and some fiery green chutney.
But if you're craving for some junk food, head to the Rajasthani food stall for some Aloo-Paneer Tikki Chaat, which is served with dahi and generous lashings of green chutney, Aloo-Pyaaz Kachori and Mix Chaat.
Fans of folk music and dance can drop by the section cordoned off for cultural performances, which run from 7 pm onwards right up to the closing time.
At Bandra Reclamation Grounds, opposite Lilavati Hospital, Bandra (W).
On till tomorrow, 10.30 am to 9.30 pm.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
