New Delhi: Stalls from 32 states and Union territories, exhibitors from 11 countries and endless potential for shopping: these are the factors that attracted thousands to the opening day of the 45th India International Trade Fair organised at Bharat Mandapam.The attractions included a 360-degree immersive experience of famous places in Andaman and Nicobar, and — for the first time — hands-on tie-dye and pottery workshops at the Rajasthan pavilion, where visitors have the chance to understand the process and make attractive handcrafts.The fair, organised by Indian Trade Promotion Organisation, will run till Nov 27. The first five days are reserved for business visitors and the fair opens to the public from Nov 19.Chief minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated the pavilion hosting stalls from Delhi, which is one of the four focus states, and was greeted with a kathak and a qawwali performance by school children. “Delhi is not just the national capital but also a symbol of India’s rich historical heritage, diverse culture, entrepreneurship and modern development. Through Delhi Pavilion, this multifaceted identity of the capital is being showcased on national and international platforms,” Gupta said.The pavilion included a stall by Tihar Se, a brand which sells products made by the inmates of the jail. Exhibits ranged from baked goods to wooden sculptures; the proceeds from the sales go to the convicts. “It helps in their reintegration and rehabilitation into society. When a prisoner leaves Tihar after 15 or 20 years, we want them to have at least learned an occupational skill during their time,” said Ravindra, a Tihar official.While some pavilions were simple, others had lavish decorations that demanded a stroll through their lanes at the least. Maharashtra’s pavilion invited visitors with its life-size replicas; Punjab’s bhangra performers were an immediate energy booster, while the fragrance of attars seduced passers-by into entering Uttar Pradesh’s pavilion.Among the 17 halls, which were spread over 1 lakh sqm, the hall with the most chatter was hall one, containing stalls from 11 countries, including Iran, Ghana, Turkey and Tunisia. From 12-foot onyx fountains to packets of chocolate-covered almonds, the international stalls had something for everyone.The exhibitors, however, said the number of countries being invited had been decreasing year by year. Another complaint was about declining sales, as fewer people were willing to buy expensive showpieces and handicrafts, they added.What brings people to the fair year after year? Anil and Hema Singh, a couple from Faridabad, have different answers. “The diversity in handicrafts and food attracts me,” said Hema. For Anil, the motivation is simpler. “My wife’s love for the fair,” he said.
