Amid heatwave, Toshali fair to start from tomorrow

Bhubaneswar: The much-awaited 19th Toshali National Crafts Mela-2025, which is usually held in the winter, will start at Janata Maidan here on Thursday, amid the rise in temperatures and heatwave. It has raised concerns over the turnout of visitors and its impact on sales.
"We eagerly wait for Toshali Crafts fair every year as artisans from across India come with handicrafts and handlooms. But the temperature in Bhubaneswar has been crossing 36°C and it may affect the footfall. Hot winds are blowing till 5 pm," said Sarmistha Swain, a resident of Nayapalli.
The minister for handlooms, textiles, and handicrafts, Pradeep Bal Samanta, on Tuesday announced that the mela will be a grand showcase of India's rich handicrafts and handlooms. "The fair will be on from 2 pm to 9 pm, and the cool breezes will provide a pleasant visit for visitors, and the sales will be better this year. We are expecting a footfall of 30 lakh visitors and projected sales of Rs 28 crore," said Bal Samanta.
The event will be inaugurated by chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi and will run until March 31. Over 700 artisans and weavers from across the country will participate, with more than 650 stalls displaying traditional and contemporary handloom and handicraft products.
This year, the mela aims to be accessible, inclusive, and sustainable (AIS), ensuring facilities for senior citizens and differently-abled visitors. A special help desk with wheelchair assistance, designated toilet blocks, and a mother-and-baby care room will be available.
The highlight of the mela will be the theme pavilion, Silpa Srujani, spread over 2,500 sq ft, showcasing unique craftsmanship. The fair will also feature a food court with 35 stalls offering a variety of cuisines, including Odia delicacies. Cultural performances will be held every evening.