Maiden edition of Handicrafts Expo (Artefacts), Jodhpur-2025 by EPCH gets phenomenal response

Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 26th January 2025: The 1st edition of Handicrafts Expo (ARTEFACTS), Jodhpur-2025, concluded today amidst much fanfare. Artefacts Jodhpur was organised by the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) from 23rd to 26th January 2025, at the Trade Facilitation Centre (TFC) in Boranada, Jodhpur.

Dileep Baid, Chairman of EPCH, said, “Conceptualised and organised well by EPCH and the handicrafts manufacturing fraternity of Jodhpur & Jaipur, the first edition of this show successfully concluded after bringing together around 100 exhibitors, curated displays, and various ancillary events. Visitors were pleased to see the product variety, especially the craftsmanship and attention to detail in some of the displays. Sustainability was a very visible concept in many contemporary and stylish range of crafts, home décor, furniture, furnishings and leather crafts showcased by our exhibitors. All items adhered to current and emerging international market trends, making them highly sought-after.”

Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Chief Mentor in role of Director General EPCH & Chairman – IEML, informed, “The fair in its four sunny Jodhpur days kept all busy with enquiries, order finalising and on-site purchases, defining the impetus. This has been fulfilling experience for all the participants.”

Hansraj Baheti, Member, Committee of Administration (CoA), EPCH, added, “around 10,000 visitors attended the fair. Apart from retail visitors and domestic volume buyers, hoteliers, architects, designers, e-tailers and lifestyle sector professionals attended. The event delighted visitors with the diversity and quality of the exhibits.”

He further added that “Visitors also enjoyed live demonstrations by artisans, featuring hand block printing and intricate wood carving, and expressed their admiration for the artisans’ remarkable skills and the rich stories behind their creations. The event also featured spectacular fashion shows by the Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI), Rajasthani folk cultural performances by Sahitya Kala Academy and a mesmerizing live musical performance by the popular local band, Mo-Hit and Ninad.”

R. K. Verma, Executive Director, EPCH said, “We are grateful to Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Govt. of India, for inaugurating this maiden edition and also to Shri Jogaram Patel, Cabinet Minister of Parliamentary Affairs & Justice Department and Shri K. K. Vishnoi, Industry & Commerce, Sports & Youth Affairs, Skill & Employment & Entrepreneurship and Policy Making, Govt. of Rajasthan as well as other distinguished guests for their visits. Dignitaries’ interaction with the exhibitors, appreciation of the product display and the organising teams has been very encouraging indeed. Organising this fair had its own challenges but the support from members of Jodhpur and Jaipur region made it unfold beautifully and run its four days course as a unique representation of Jodhpur & Jaipur’s handicraft as well as cultural heritage. We are thrilled and encouraged by the response, especially the enthusiastic reception for our exhibitors, craftspeople and upcoming entrepreneurs.”