National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Shillong, today concluded its Craft Bazaar 2026 at the State Central Library, IGP, Shillong. The Craft Bazaar held on March 12 and 13 2026, showcased a vibrant marketplace and cultural platform for artisans from the Northeast region.
Craft Bazaar 2026 formed part of a broader three-day initiative organised by NIFT Shillong from March 11 to 13 2026, aimed at revitalising and strengthening the regional craft ecosystem. The initiative began with a two-day Artisan Awareness Workshop held at NIFT, Shillong Campus in Umsawli, Mawpat. The workshop focused on empowering artisans through discussions on design intervention, branding, value addition, and entrepreneurial development. Complementing the workshop, a Craft Demonstration Programme showcased live demonstrations by master artisans, offering students a close engagement with traditional skills in cane &bamboo, wood carving and weaving.
The closing ceremony was graced by Ms. Daphiralin Kharjana, Managing Director, Meghalaya Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation (MHHDC) Ltd., Shillong, as the honourable guest. In her address, she said, “Meghalaya has taken important steps to recognise to celebrate its cultural heritage by identifying several villages as art and craft villages, each known for its unique traditional skill. These villages represent the diversity of artistic traditions in the state and remind us that crafts are deeply rooted in the identity and cultural life of our communities”.
Ms. Rima Sonar, Assistant Director (Handicrafts) Handicrafts Service Centre, Office of the Development Commissioner, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, as special guest. She highlighted the importance of supporting indigenous crafts and local artisans. And appreciated the role of NIFT in organising “platforms such as Craft Bazaar which play a vital role in preserving traditional knowledge”
Ms. Rimi Das, Joint Director, NIFT Shillong addressed the ceremony by warmly welcoming everyone to NIFT Craft Bazar, celebrating North East India’s diverse crafts and textiles. She said “NIFT aims to blend tradition with innovation, preserving craft ecosystems. Each handmade product at NIFT Craft Bazar carries with it a story- a story of heritage, patience, creativity, and dedication.”
Dr. Brijesh Deore, Director, NIFT Shillong, conveyed that the initiative reflects the institute’s continued commitment to strengthening the craft ecosystem of the Northeast. He also conveyed that “by bringing all stakeholders together, the event encourages meaningful dialogue between tradition and contemporary design”.
Among the esteemed guests were Shri Manendra Deka, a 1998 National Awardee from the Ministry of Textiles for bamboo weaving, Barpeta, Assam, and Smt Dardeny Sangma, a State Awardee recognised for her craftsmanship in traditional embroidery and contribution to preserving North East’s craft traditions.
The Craft Bazaar, brought together artisans who showcased and sold a diverse range of handcrafted products. Featured crafts included Handloom Textiles, Handicrafts, Larnai Pottery, Cane and Bamboo Craft, Eri Silk Weaving, Traditional Beaded Jewellery, Water Hyacinth Craft, and Indigenous Musical Instruments.
The highlight of the evening was the heritage walk, which celebrated North East India’s vibrant textiles and accessories styled by the NIFT team faculty and students.
Through this initiative, NIFT Shillong aims to reaffirm its commitment to supporting artisan communities, preserving traditional knowledge systems, and fostering design-led innovation that strengthens the cultural and economic landscape of Meghalaya and the Northeast.
