Designer Sharbari Datta looks at some pipli wall hangings. Picture by Aranya Sen

What: Fair Trade, an exhibition of decoratives and clothes in eco-friendly material, organised by the label Sasha.

Where: Ice Skating Rink, 78 Syed Aamir Ali Avenue.

When: November 7 to 9, 10.30 am to 7pm.

The event: Stepping into its 30th year, Sasha, a non-profit organisation that provides a platform for craftspeople from all over the country, organised a handicrafts and textiles bazaar representing Sasha producers and several other Fair Trade practitioners from Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Orissa, Rajasthan and Bengal. “Our long-term objective is to do business in a sustainable manner. Fair Trade is the answer to most problems such as gender equity, environmental concerns and cultural sensitivity,” said Rupa Mehta, director, Sasha. Using natural and eco-friendly materials such as coconut coir, natural grass, silk and terracotta, the products on offer ranged from bags, textiles, decorative hangings, pottery, candles and jewellery, in addition to a range of hair and body care products.

The bazaar had a vibrant range of dokra, cane, bamboo and terracotta wall hangings, lampshades and artefacts. Beaded jewellery, Bhagalpuri silk stoles, pipli and kantha bags were among the popular picks at the bazaar. With reviving dying art and respecting traditional techniques as the motive, the event was a hit among Asha regulars like designer Sharbari Dutta who “has been very supportive throughout, besides Aparna and Konkona Sen”, said Mehta.

The Fair Trade Forum and Sasha had also organised workshops at the venue for the participating voluntary organisation and self-help groups such as Silence and SEVA to help them improve their businesses and processes.

Ipshita Nandi