Mumbai: Mahalaxmi Saras 2023-24 Exhibition Celebrates India’s Culture

In Maharashtra, the Mahalaxmi Saras 2023-24, a celebration of India’s rich cultural heritage, opened its doors on the 26th of December at MMRDA Ground, Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) is supporting many artisans across the country to market their merchandise at the event.  Minister of Rural Development & Panchayat Raj of Maharashtra, Girish Mahajan, inaugurated the much-awaited event in the presence of distinguished guests.
 
Speaking on the occasion Minister Mahajan said that the government’s efforts are aimed at creating the right marketplace for the products of Self Help Groups in rural areas and thereby, making every woman financially empowered. He informed that since the year 2004, the ‘Mahalakshmi Saras’ exhibition has been organised in Mumbai under the Village Development Department.

He added that at the country level also, sales and exhibition programmes are organised in every State. He reiterated that the main objective of the ‘Mahalakshmi Saras’ exhibition is to provide a fair market for the products made by women and rural artisans of self-help groups in the country and in the State and also to inform the members of the groups about the products, sales and markets of different States and to share the living conditions, food culture and handicrafts of the people of the State. He informed that this year Mahalakshmi Saras has a total of 513 stalls.
 
Also speaking on the occasion Chairman, NABARD KV  Shaji said that Mahalaxmi Saras Mela exemplifies NABARD’s commitment to empowering rural artisans. He stated that they were proud to be associated with an event that not only provides a marketplace for artisans but also fosters a deeper understanding of India’s rich cultural heritage. He added that through initiatives like these, NABARD aims to bridge the gap between rural artisans and urban consumers, creating sustainable livelihoods and preserving our diverse traditions.

This year’s event boasts over 500 stalls featuring a diverse array of products from across India. Notably, NABARD has contributed to the mela’s unique offerings, supporting 49 stalls of artisans from across the country.
 
The exhibition will conclude on the 7th of next month. Attendees can visit the stalls between 10 am – 10 pm on all days till then.