Press Release
In the ongoing 4-day stone exposition at Sitapura – the ‘India Stonemart 2019’, the ‘Shilpgram’ has become a crowd puller. This area has been specially earmarked for stone artisans from across India to display their products and establish direct business linkages at the Mart. This year as many as 31 artisans have been given space free of cost to demonstrate their art. ‘Shilpgram’ has been set up by Centre for Development of Stones (CDOS) in association with Rural Non Farm Development Agency (RUDA).
Multifarious items like – religious idols, sculptures, home décor items, kitchenware, candle stands, flower pots, trays, designer wall panels, coasters, paperweights tabletops and much more are on display at Shilpgram. Products found here are made out of various types of stones like limestone, sandstone, marble, black marble, granite, gem stone, among others. Innovative use of stone in various shapes, sizes, colours and patterns can be widely seen here.
Religious idols like Krishna, Shiva, Ganesh and Buddha are also quite attractive. Indoor waterfalls in diverse shapes and marble tabletops embedded with semi-precious stones are also on display. Traditional crafts with a modern blend using new technology are topping the trend in the arena of décor. Be it your office or home, these eye-catching stone products will certainly add a distinctive dimension to its appearance.
It is to be recalled that ‘India Stonemart’ is organised by Centre for Development of Stones (CDOS) with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) as co-organiser and is supported by the Government of Rajasthan and other reputed institutions. Rajasthan State Industrial Development & Investment Corporation Ltd. (RIICO) is the Principal Sponsor of the event.
Box Item: Success Stories
Shilpgram has been instrumental in empowering the lives of the artisans. Artisans have been exposed to new techniques of stone crafting and design and taken their products to new markets. Award-winning artist, Mr. Shivsay Mourya was earlier barely able to make ends meet designing Shivlingas with an older craftsmen. But after attending a training session with RUDA he managed to grow his work and increase his income.
Another shining example is artisan, Mr. Makbul Ahmed who after attending a training cluster managed to branch out and do his own work. He now produces exquisite pieces of stone in both traditional and contemporary designs. He currently employs 10-12 senior artisans and many support workers.