Bags on sale at a shop in Mauryalok Complex in Patna. Picture by Ashok Sinha

Patna, July 25: Handicraft items have suddenly picked up sale in the state capital.

The rise in demand is indicative of two trends — one that people are developing a taste for ethnic things and second, such items are becoming more accessible to the consumers in the state capital.

No wonder, people are flocking shops in their localities or good old Mauryalok Complex that sell these handicraft items made of jute, bamboo, fabric etc. Those who wish to give a Gujarati look to their workstation have their fill, as do those with an eye for decorative pieces adorned with Madhubani paintings.

Stationery items for daily use or boxes and bags to put trinkets in are also available in abundance.

Satnarayan Prasad, a senior employee at Angana, a handicraft shop on Boring Road, said: “We keep different types of handicraft, which are bought not only by individuals but also groups and institutions. At times, our customers place orders for specific items, which are crafted by self-help group workers. Many institutions also buy folders from us which are made of cloth with sujani and appliqué work.”

Supriya Sinha, a resident, said: “I am fond of different types of paintings and I came here to purchase wall hangings with Madhubani painting, as I think they give a nice look to one’s home. They are not very expensive too, I got a beautiful wall hanging for Rs 450.”

If you are a fine arts connoisseur, you can buy paintings for Rs 155 to Rs 550. Tea sets come for Rs 495 while purses come for Rs 225. A jewellery box will cost you Rs 125 to Rs 155. And, after all, girls can never have too much jewellery, so you can also buy necklaces that are priced between Rs 30 and Rs 50.

“Wooden tea sets with tikuli art are in demand these days. People buy wind chimes with Gujarati and Rajasthani artwork from us. These too are very popular,” said Satnarayan.

The wind chimes at Angana are priced up to Rs 200. You can also buy mobile holder for Rs 40 to Rs 80, or flower vase at Rs 200 and decorate your workstation.

Sukriti Anand, a homemaker who lives near Gandhi Maidan, is a regular at Angana. She said: “I came looking for something that would brighten up my living room. Nothing yet has caught my eye but I am hopeful of finding something nice.”

Madhu Gupta, another homemaker, said: “I like jute wall hangings with the face of Ganesha on them. I found a nice one for Rs 210. I mostly prefer handmade decorative items as these have a modern look and the quality is also very good.”

So, loosen your purse strings and give in to your impulse. Even if it’s the jute swings at the shop — take your pick from the ethnic collection.