Crafts Council of Telangana announces Hyderabad events to support fire-affected artisans

The Crafts Council of Telangana (CCT) has announced two upcoming craft events in Hyderabad's Financial District and Banjara Hills to raise support for the Bharoon Embroidery Cluster and artisans affected by a major fire in New Delhi. The events, Kausalyam 2026 and Threads of Hope Bazaar, aim to rebuild the livelihoods of craftspeople impacted by the March 15 fire at the Dastkar Nature Bazaar.

The first event, Kausalyam 2026, will take place at the Anvaya Convention in the Financial District on July 15 and 16. The exhibition will be open to the public from 10 am to 7 pm on both days, with free entry for all visitors.

Organised once every five years in collaboration with textile revivalist Gaurang Shah, Kausalyam 2026 will feature more than 75 textile studios and craft exhibitors. The venue will host over 120 stalls and showcase more than 40 curated handcrafted collections sourced from across India.

Visitors to Kausalyam 2026 will also have access to a Museum of Textiles, which will trace the artistry, history, and evolution of Indian textile traditions. The event will host "Conversations with Craftpreneurs," offering opportunities to interact directly with artisans, designers, and creative entrepreneurs.

Cultural performances scheduled for the event include "Sita Anveshana," a Telugu-English leather puppetry presentation, and "Virata Parvam," a Cheriyal Scroll storytelling experience enhanced by augmented reality.

The second event, the Threads of Hope Bazaar, is scheduled for July 31 and August 1 at CCT Spaces, located in MLA Colony, off Road No. 12, Banjara Hills. This bazaar will run from 10 am to 7 pm on both days.

The Threads of Hope Bazaar will specifically feature 26 artisan groups and creative enterprises that were affected by the fire in New Delhi. A wide range of handcrafted products will be available for purchase, including carpets, block prints, Banarasi sarees, Chikankari garments, and Pashmina shawls. Other items on display will include cane crafts, papier-mâché, tribal jewellery, embroidery, hemp clothing, and home décor.

CCT, which was established in 1987 as a voluntary non-profit organisation, stated that these events are designed around the theme of celebrating India's handmade heritage while actively rebuilding artisan livelihoods.