India – Sri Lanka ‘‘ Shilpa Kala’’ India’s magic together with Sri Lankan heritage

From the ancient times, India and Sri Lanka have held bilateral ties, culturally, socially and politically, and have astonished the world with their rich culture and heritage.
Having similarities between their traditions, both countries have shown their mastery in the field of handicrafts as well, conveying the message that they have skilled artisans who are capable of turning anything to a work of art, showcasing their talents to the whole world.
These creations depict the pride and image of both countries, and the vivid eye catching colours and various designs showcase their superb creativity and imagination.
History depicts that the Asian culture and social background was much more developed even than the European culture, and various crafts identical for each province in India, and the Sri Lankan handicraft, including jewellery and wood work belonging to different eras make it obvious. Historical resources say that Sri Lanka also had a rich textile culture going back to queen Kuveni’s time.
The colonial era too, gave us some of its cultural advantages, but India as our neighbor has given us many priceless items apart from Buddhism, including handicrafts, textiles, and also jewellery . 
Keeping with these age old traditions and showcasing the mastery in the field of handicrafts, the Sri Lankan public would be given the oppurtunity to experience the magic of handicraft and textile industry in both countries, with India-Sri Lanka “Shilpa Kala”.

"Other events during the exhibition include a buyers –sellers meet with Indian artisans on March 24 , and a workshop on “Marketing of Traditional Handicraft” on March 25, which certainly will bring a new experience to Sri Lankans to share their ideas and views on new inventions and concepts regarding the Handicraft Industry"

This project is done in collaboration with the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka, funded by Investment and Technology Promotion Division of Ministry of External Affairs of India. The other partners include Dastkari Haat Samiti of India and Hands of Sri Lanka, together with the National Arts and Crafts Foundation of Sri Lanka.  “This is a huge boost for the handicraft sector. After this, a series of other events will also follow pertaining to handicrafts, such as design development programmes, and also programmes by the India Sri Lanka Foundation,” Chairman  of Hands of Sri Lanka Buddhi Keerthisena said.

“More of our artisans will be able to participate in Indian festivals. This is a very significant event for the support of craft in Sri Lanka, with the support of the Indian High Commission,” he said.
Other events during the exhibition include a buyers –sellers meet with Indian artisans on March 24 , and a workshop on “Marketing of Traditional Handicraft” on March 25, which certainly will bring a new experience to Sri Lankans to share their ideas and views on new inventions and concepts regarding the Handicraft Industry.
Shilpa Kala will showcase the best of traditional handicrafts from India and Sri Lanka. It will also emphasise the confluence of cultures that underline the handicrafts traditions in both countries. This will be a good opportunity for Indian and Sri Lankan artisans to exchange and showcase their skills too.
Handicrafts from India will include Kashmiri Embroidery, Saris, Batik, Silver and bead jewellery, copper ware, Bandhini fabrics and wood carvings. Visitors will be able to see a demonstration of bangle making while Henna artists will be available to apply Henna.
The Sri Lankan items will also be displayed in Jute, wood and Cane Work, masks, lace, toys, ceramic and clay articles, embroidery and Batik fabrics. The Indian food stalls will allow the public to have a taste of delicious Indian Cuisine. Thus India- Sri Lanka “Shilpa Kala” will certainly boost the handcraft industry in both countries and also give the general public an experience to remember.