A customer checks out a handbag made of coconut shell at the Munger stall at Nabard Haat. Picture by Ranjeet Kumar Dey

Patna, Feb. 5: Coconut is not just a delicious and refreshing fruit, it can also be used to enhance the décor of your house.

Curtains, incense holders and decorative pieces are only a few of the things that can be made of coconut shells. If you are wondering where you can pick up these decorative items from, head straight to the Nabard Haat at Sinha Library grounds.

Artisans from Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Bengal and Bihar have set up more than 150 stalls at the fair, which began on February 3. You can pick up a vast range of handicraft items such as patchwork bedsheet, katha embroidery, Tikuli art and lac bangles from the fest till February 12. You can also get Madhubani paintings at the haat. Pickles, honey, sattu mixture, fries and padad are also available.

But the stall that is attracting the most attention is Pranshu Coco Handiworks from Munger. You can purchase key rings, pen stands, incense holders, jewellery, earrings, neckpieces, jugs, cups, cellphone stands, bags, curtains and beautifully crafted decorative pieces — all made from coconut shells — at this stall.

Thirty-eight-year-old Anjana Verma, who came to the haat with a friend today, said: “It is just unbelievable that these products are made from coconut. Usually, we throw away the coconut shells without a second thought. But these can be used to make beautiful items.”

She added: “For me, the best product is this handbag made from coconut shells. It can be used for various purposes. The bag even has a zip!”

Nikunj Bihari, who has put up the stall, said: “Almost everyone loves these products. Our items have been displayed all over the country.”

Some of his products — like shirt buttons — are as cheap as 25paise. For others, like window curtains, you would have to shell out Rs 1,700. You can own the coconut bag for Rs 150

Asked how he started to make products out of coconut shells, the artisan said: “I have always been interested in art. I used to love making beautiful things out of waste material. At first my wife was sceptical; but she too soon joined my efforts. Now we make a living from it.”

Another visitor to the stall, Usha Raj, appreciated the products. She like the curtains most.

“When my guests see this curtain, they will be pleasantly surprised,” said Usha.

She added: “Everything is so beautiful here!”