To catch the colourful strands of an Indian community vis-à-vis its aptitudes, an outsider should visit a mela. Even a neighbourhood fair in the country offers a window into the cultural richness of its surrounding areas. And traditional skills prance around on more prominent mela grounds. On the one hand, fairs help artisans assess their market share and meet city-based target groups, while on the other, they introduce buyers to a range of local crafts that are upgrading to remain relevant.

Rajasthani Crafts Mela that’s being organised by the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) — in association with Mehrangarh Museum Trust and non-profit Sampoorn — facilitates the bridging of social and labour sectors.