The vibrant Saras Mela, a celebration of rural entrepreneurship and traditional crafts, drew to a successful close at Patna's iconic Gandhi Maidan on Wednesday. Organized by Jeevika under the state's rural development department, the five-day fair proved to be a massive commercial and cultural success, recording impressive sales and footfall.
Record-Breaking Turnout and Economic Impact
The event served as a powerful economic engine for rural artisans, particularly women. Total sales at the mela crossed an impressive ₹5.09 crore, demonstrating a strong market for handmade, traditional products. The fair's allure was undeniable, attracting an estimated 3.48 lakh (348,000) visitors over its duration. This overwhelming response highlights the growing public appreciation for indigenous crafts and sustainable goods.
A Platform for Empowerment and Cultural Legacy
The Saras Mela was far more than a marketplace. It was a dedicated platform showcasing the skills of rural women entrepreneurs and artisans from all 38 districts of Bihar and 25 other states across India. The event played a crucial role in transforming lesser-known traditional crafts into viable, sustainable livelihoods, thereby promoting financial self-reliance among rural communities.
A core objective of the mela was to reconnect India's younger generation with the nation's rich cultural heritage. It successfully highlighted traditional crafts, folk culture, and indigenous cuisine, offering a vibrant, hands-on experience of India's diverse artistic legacy.
Government Support and Social Initiatives
The strong commercial performance also underscored the positive impact of government welfare schemes. Initiatives like the Satat Jivikoparjan Yojana and the 'Didi ki Paudhshala' plant sale initiative found prominent display and contributed to the mela's success. The event's significance was acknowledged by dignitaries including Social Welfare Minister Madan Sahni and Additional Chief Secretary N Vijayalakshmi, who visited on the final day and praised the efforts of Jeevika and the participating artisans.
Beyond commerce, the mela served as a platform for social awareness and capacity building. Street theatre groups, such as the Prahari Natya Sanstha, staged powerful performances on critical issues like child marriage and dowry abolition. In a parallel event, a two-day training workshop for 'Pashu Sakhis' (animal friends) from Nalanda district was conducted, focusing on essential skills in animal health and treatment.
The conclusion of the Saras Mela 2024 marks not just the end of an event, but a significant step forward for rural artisans. It stands as a testament to the economic potential of India's traditional crafts when provided with the right platform and support, paving the way for greater empowerment and cultural preservation.
