The Handloom & Craft Pavilion Marketing Complex at Kisama Heritage Village in Kohima is a grand initiative of the government’s ongoing effort to support artisans and showcase the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland and India as a whole. It was officially inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, on November 26, 2024.
The pavilion, funded by the Development Commissioner (Handloom) under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, through the Need-Based Special Infrastructure Project and the National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP), serves as a vibrant hub for the celebration, promotion, and marketing of traditional handlooms and crafts. The Marketing Complex houses 132 stalls across two floors, with 57 stalls on the ground floor and 75 on the first floor. In addition to the stalls, the complex includes a Handloom Museum, administrative offices, a VIP lounge, a conference hall, and a cafeteria. Public amenities, including lavatories for persons with disabilities (PWDs), ensure accessibility for all visitors.
The complex is designed to foster both cultural preservation and economic growth, serving as a dynamic platform where artisans, designers, and buyers can interact. It offers a space where the artistry of traditional handloom and crafts, ranging from textiles to woodcraft and leatherwork, can be admired and purchased. Visitors can find a wide variety of products on display, including traditional shawls, handcrafted furniture, jute crafts, beauty products, local beverages, and horticultural items. The pavilion also features stalls by India Post, local tea producers, and souvenir sellers, offering a unique blend of authentic handmade goods and regional treasures.
The marketing complex is more than just a retail space; it is an incubator for Nagaland’s artisans, offering them the opportunity to engage with both domestic and international markets. By showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of local artisans, the pavilion is positioned as a vital link in fostering sustainable livelihoods while promoting the state’s rich cultural identity.
Since opening at the start of the Hornbill Festival, the pavilion has become a key destination for both tourists and locals, serving as a major center for economic and cultural exchange in Nagaland. This initiative underscores the importance of supporting local craft industries and preserving traditions passed down through generations. Through this vibrant platform, the Handloom & Craft Pavilion aims to create lasting economic impact while celebrating the art and craft of Nagaland and India. (DIPR)
