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        Handicrafts and handloom items with artistic nature have become most sought-after by Chennaiites in recent times. The increasing number of expositions bears testimony to it.

        On these lines is the Art and Craft Exposition, a non-social service organisation, which has organised 'Crafts Utsav', an Orissa handicrafts and handloom exhibition at M V Jayaraman Convention Centre, Kilpauk.

        Exotic varieties of designer sarees, silk, gift boxes, handicrafts, artefacts, fine jewellery are on display.

        The fabrics in different hues illustrate the unique and artistic ability and traditions of the skilled weavers, whose collections attracted a good number of visitors.

        Also on display are bandhas, a kind of fabric well known for its high artistic designs, colour combinations and durability. The ikat sarees with borders in striking combinations are eye catching.

        The fabric items are used for furnishings, as bedspread and table cloth.

        Worthy of mention among the displayed item is the silver filigree, a kind of ornament crafted with thin silver. The other items that are on display are designer wear from Kolkata, Punjab and Gujarat.

        In around 32 stalls, there are also mouth fresheners and digestive items from Jaipur. Believed to be natural coolant for the body, spadikams were in a range of sizes at the show.

        The organiser of the exposition Ranjan Parida said,' conducting such shows encourages artisans to develop a good rapport with the customers as they interact directly with them knowing their need.

        It also helps keep their traditional crafts alive and initiate a sustainable social development by promoting and marketing their crafts'.

        The exposition will be on till 15 January.