New Delhi, September 12 (H.S.): A glimpse of the cultural ties between India and Iran was witnessed at the ‘BRICS Bazaar’, being held at the National Crafts Museum. Zahra Pezeshkian, daughter of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, visited the Iranian Pavilion along with her husband, Hassan Majidi.

On the occasion, Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi welcomed Zahra Pezeshkian and accompanied her on a tour of the BRICS Bazaar. She viewed at close quarters the art, handicrafts, traditional products and cultural heritage showcased by BRICS member and partner countries. She also interacted with artisans and representatives present at the venue and learnt about the art and handicrafts being displayed by them.

The exhibition, being held at the Crafts Museum in Delhi, features more than 40 artisans, designers and companies associated with the creative sector from 18 countries, showcasing their traditional art and handicrafts. The exhibition will remain open until September 15. Several foreign dignitaries and members of their families are also expected to visit the exhibition during the BRICS Summit.

The BRICS Bazaar is showcasing authentic art, handicrafts, handlooms, textiles and artefacts from various countries, including Suzhou embroidery from China, traditional weaving from Indonesia, wood and gourd artefacts from Nigeria, and Zulu leatherwork from South Africa. Foreign delegates visiting the bazaar are also getting an opportunity to watch artisans create their works of art. In addition, various cultural programmes are being organised at the venue.

India is also represented by four artisans showcasing the country’s traditional crafts. Riyaz Ahmed is demonstrating Kashmiri papier-mâché, Mohammad Bilal Khatri is showcasing block printing, Karan Singh is presenting terracotta art, and Shadab Ahmed is demonstrating the craft of making lac bangles.

Besides the stalls set up for BRICS member and partner countries, host India has created special sections representing different states to showcase the country’s rich cultural diversity. The exhibition venue features a Jammu and Kashmir hut, a Rajasthan courtyard, a Gujarat hut, an Odisha courtyard, a Bengal hut and a Bihar courtyard.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar