Over 130 stalls showcase India's traditional handicrafts, handloom and indigenous products | Cultural performances and folk traditions add to the festive spirit at Dilli Haat
The ongoing Shilp Samagam Mela 2026 at Dilli Haat, INA, New Delhi, is attracting a large number of visitors, including families and young people, with its impressive display of India's traditional crafts, handloom products and cultural heritage. The growing popularity of the event is also reflected in the encouraging sales figures recorded during its initial days.
According to a senior official of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, the four participating national corporations have collectively registered sales worth approximately Rs 73.49 lakh between November 1 and November 10, 2026. The figures indicate a positive response from consumers and reflect the expanding market potential of products made by artisans and beneficiary communities.
The participating organisations are the National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC), National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation (NBCFDC), National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC), and National Divyangjan Finance and Development Corporation (NDFDC).
Organised by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, the 15-day exhibition has become an important platform for promoting indigenous products, traditional craftsmanship and India's diverse regional cultures. It also provides visitors an opportunity to interact with artisans and discover the stories behind their creations.
This year's Mela is being organised around the theme 'Prakash Aur Parampara – Jyoti Se Jyoti Jalayein', bringing together the spirit of tradition, creativity and festive celebrations. The exhibition is divided into seven specially designed zones: Kala Aangan, Prakash Chowk, Pooja Path, Sajawat Bazaar, Gharana, Swaad Chowk and Manch. Each section offers a different experience, ranging from traditional handicrafts and festive decorations to home accessories, cultural products and regional food.
More than 130 stalls have been set up at the venue, displaying an extensive collection of handicrafts, handloom products, traditional textiles, decorative lamps, festive items, home décor and other indigenous creations. Visitors are showing keen interest in the products, appreciating the skills of artisans and purchasing items that represent India's rich artistic traditions.
One of the major attractions of Shilp Samagam Mela 2026 is its daily cultural programme, organised every evening at the Manch. Artists and cultural groups representing different states are presenting traditional music, folk dances and regional performances, creating an atmosphere of celebration and cultural exchange.
These performances allow visitors to experience India's varied cultural traditions under one roof. The evening programmes have added a special dimension to the exhibition, transforming it into more than just a shopping destination. Visitors are enjoying the opportunity to explore different art forms and witness the country's cultural diversity through live performances.
The Mela also plays an important role in providing market access to artisans and beneficiaries belonging to Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, Safai Karamchari communities and persons with disabilities. By offering them a platform to display and sell their products directly to consumers, the initiative seeks to encourage entrepreneurship, strengthen self-employment and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.
To make participation easier, the Ministry is providing several forms of assistance, including free stalls, travel expenses, daily allowances and transportation facilities for carrying goods. These arrangements help participating artisans overcome financial and logistical challenges while enabling them to reach a wider customer base.
The Ministry is also working to expand opportunities for artisans through initiatives such as Bharat TULIP, which connects traditional producers with e-commerce platforms and wider markets. Similarly, Purple Fest promotes the creativity, skills and capabilities of persons with disabilities while encouraging inclusion, equal opportunities and greater public awareness.
Since 2022, the Ministry has been organising Shilp Samagam Melas to support artisans from Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes and Safai Karamchari communities. The initiative has so far benefited more than 1,000 artisans by providing them with opportunities to exhibit, promote and market their products.
Beyond showcasing traditional craftsmanship, the programme aims to strengthen economic independence, promote entrepreneurship and support the socio-economic empowerment of disadvantaged communities through sustainable income-generating activities.
The Shilp Samagam Mela 2026 will remain open to visitors at Dilli Haat, INA, New Delhi, until November 15, 2026.
With its combination of traditional handicrafts, indigenous products, cultural performances and direct market opportunities for artisans, the exhibition is providing a platform to celebrate India's artistic heritage while promoting inclusive growth and the vision of a self-reliant India.