Delhi hosts Northeast Carnival festival

New Delhi, Mar 2 (ANI): Delhi recently played host to a Northeast Carnival festival which showcased the region's rich and diverse culture.

The eleven day long fest, which began on February 18, saw the participation of several traders and exhibitors from the region. They showcased handloom and handicrafts from the region.

The cane and bamboo products particularly attracted large crowds to the carnival.

The festival provided a platform to these artisans to reach out to a new market.

"Such fairs and fests benefit us a lot. They not only provide us a platform to showcase our talent and sell our products but also give us knowledge about new things and new markets," said Sapam Kiranbala, exhibitor, Manipur.

Visitors, who thronged the festival, were delighted on seeing the exquisite and unique products that were at offer by the exhibitors.

"I saw different products made of cane and bamboo and I really like it. I find the products are very good," said Ashuni, a visitor.

The visitors also got to sample northeastern cuisine at various stalls set up at the venue. It was a completely new experience for most of the people. Several exhibitors also sold packed food items from the northeast.

"This is the first time I am coming here to taste food from the northeast and I really like it. This time I have come here especially for the Northeast festival," said Rupender, a visitor from Delhi.

The visitors were later treated to rock music by bands from the Northeast. Recycle, a band from Imphal, played some contemporary music to entertain the crowds. The fest provided the bands a platform to present their music to a bigger audience.

"We organized this event in order to bridge the gap between Northeast and the mainland. So, we have brought different culture, crafts, and ethnic food to the capital city so that people from Delhi or other states will be aware about the culture and lifestyle of northeast people," said Bobby, one of the organizers.

The Indigenous People Welfare Organization in collaboration with Delhi Tourism, Ministry of Home Affairs, DoNER ministry and Manipur Development Society and other private players jointly organized the event. by Themthingchon YR (ANI)