Subhechcha Ganguly 
One of the year’s most anticipated cultural events, the Toshali National Crafts Mela, was officially opened on Friday night by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. In his video address to kick off the fair, the Chief Minister expressed his hope that the celebration of art and culture will always serve as a catalyst for innovation, inspiration, and the financial empowerment of craftspeople.The “Theme Pavilion” of the Mela this year features the “Tribal Crafts & Weaves of the State and GI Products,” which was opened by Smt. Rita Sahu, the Hon’ble Minister of the Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts Department of the Government of Odisha.Principal Secretary of Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts Department, Government of Odisha Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee welcomed all of the talented weavers and craftsmen from the State during her remarks at both the opening event and the August gathering.
In addition, a food court featuring 25 food stalls has been established, providing guests with mouthwatering multi-cuisine dishes in addition to traditional Odia cuisine from upscale hotels and eateries. A portion of these stalls are reserved for government agencies such as OTDC and Millet Mission.
The mela will remain open to the public from 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM every day until December 26th, 2023. The Mela premises have access to all necessary logistics, including a fire department, security, first aid, ambulance, drinking water, restrooms, and ATMs.
