Aadi Mahotsav concludes at Dilli Haat

Aadi Mahotsav, the National Tribal Carnival concluded with much glitter and fanfare at Dilli Haat, INA on November 30, 2018. The event was truly a celebration of tribal crafts and commerce with the tribal artisans' sales of more than Rs 16 crores being logged during the fortnight. This included orders received from various organisations including TRIFED. The tribal culture was displayed through programs held every day, which included internationally acclaimed groups like Siddi Dhamal from Gujarat, Chau folk Dances from Jharkhand, Manipuri tribal dances, dance troupe from Leh and Ladhak, Folk Singers from Rajasthan. Aadi Mahotsav also showcased tribal cuisines of many varieties.

During the event, Ministry of Tribal Affairs and TRIFED felicitated Mary Kom. The Union Minister for Tribal Affairs presented her with a cheque of Rs. 20 lakhs, a tribute to her unflinching efforts and hard work. Mary Kom, the pride of India recently won her 6th Women's World Boxing Championship gold, breaking all previous records set by any women boxer anywhere in the world.

The felicitation ceremony was presided over by Jual Oram, Minister for Tribal Affairs, in the august presence of Ministers of State for Tribal Affairs – Jasvantsinh Sumanbhai Bhabhor. More than 1000 tribal artists, artisans, and chef from 25 States, showcasing various art, crafts, and cuisines, participated in the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Jual Oram stated that the 15 days Aadi Maltotsav had generated a business worth Rs 16 crores. This was a four-time increase from the business that was generated during the event during last year. Expressing his happiness, he said that the event holds great importance for all tribal artisans and now they look forward to this. Keeping in view the great success of the festival, it has now been decided to extend Aadi Mahotsav to all state capitals where it will be organised over the next four months. He also complimented the team from TRIFED for doing an excellent job in providing livelihood opportunity to tribal artisans and artists.

Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, Jasvantsinh Bhabhor stated that he is very happy that TRIFED had taken the initiative to hold this event, where tribal artisans were earning their due and also respect from the citizens of Delhi. In a similar Aadi Mahotsav held at Ahmedabad, almost 1200 artists from the country participated and had benefitted from the business that was conducted there. He wished TRIFED the best of luck in taking up the task for tribal empowerment and promised full support in the future.

The festival ran for a fortnight till November 30, 2018. As per the theme of the festival, Delhites truly enjoyed the celebration of the 'Spirit of Tribal Culture, Cuisine and Commerce'. The festival featured exhibition-cum-sale of tribal handicrafts, art, paintings, fabric, jewellery.

Towards the end, Managing Director, TRIFED gave a vote of thanks. He stated that the tribal artisans were brilliant and he is sure that the Delhites have learned a great deal from their skills and diligence during the Mahotsav.