Siliguri, 10th January: Handicrafts Expo 2025-26 at Biswa Bangla Shilpi Haat in Kawakhali, Siliguri, is witnessing a vibrant turnout, with large crowds visiting the venue daily. Within just nine days of its launch, the expo has recorded business of nearly Rs 2 crore, reflecting strong public interest in traditional crafts.
A wide range of handcrafted products made from clay, bamboo, and wood are on display, drawing significant attention from visitors. Artisans from various districts have brought diverse handmade items, adding to the fair’s appeal. This year, artisan Yogesh Deb Sharma from Kushmandi in Dakshin Dinajpur district has emerged as a major attraction.
Yogesh has showcased unique products made entirely from jute. While jute bags, footwear, and decorative items are commonly available, his collection stands out for introducing jute-based garments. These include full jackets, Nehru jackets, trousers, and caps made from jute.
By profession an agriculturist, Yogesh said he learned the craft out of personal interest. He initially began by making jute caps and gloves and gradually expanded to jackets and trousers, which have received wide appreciation from visitors.
He prepares jute thread himself from raw jute and carries out the entire process, from dyeing the thread to designing the garments using crochet techniques, by hand. This is his first experience exhibiting at the Biswa Bangla Shilpi Haat Expo, where he realised there is strong demand for jute-based apparel.
Although the relatively higher price of jute garments has limited purchases by some visitors, Yogesh said the curiosity and appreciation shown by people have encouraged him. He added that he plans to participate in more expos in the future to take his jute-based clothing to a wider audience.