Lepakshi Handicrafts Exhibition to Begin in Vijayawada from Sep 8 TO 14

Vijayawada, September 7: The Gandhi Shilp Bazaar and Lepakshi Handicrafts Design Competition Exhibition will be held in Vijayawada from September 8o 14 at Amma Kalyana Mandapam. The week-long event is being organized by the Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation in association with the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, and Lepakshi.

Around forty artisans and craftsmen from across the country are set to participate. The exhibition will feature a range of traditional works including wooden carvings, crochet lace, Thanjavur paintings, leather puppets, rugs, and imitation jewelry. Artisans from Andhra Pradesh will present region-specific crafts, expected to be a key attraction.

The event will also host the Lepakshi Handicrafts Design Competition, showcasing creative entries in five categories: Kondapalli toys, Etikoppaka toys, wooden carvings, leather puppets, and Kalamkari printing. Winners will be selected by a panel of experts and awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals, along with cash prizes totaling Rs. 2.5 lakh. Visitors will also be able to vote for their preferred works, adding to the competitive atmosphere.

The exhibition will remain open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., including Sundays and public holidays. The inauguration will take place on September 8 at 5 p.m. in the presence of dignitaries, while the prize distribution ceremony is scheduled for September 12 at 5 p.m.

Speaking ahead of the event, Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation Vice Chairman and Managing Director Vishnu Manoharan said the exhibition and competition highlight cultural heritage while creating opportunities for artisans. He urged the public to attend, support local craftsmen, and engage with the state’s handicraft tradition.