Preserving India's Rich Handicraft Heritage: UP Governor's Call to Action

Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel emphasized the importance of preserving India's traditional handicrafts for future generations at the 'Craftroots' exhibition in Indore. She highlighted the decline in the number of Patola saree weavers in Gujarat and urged artisans to pass on their skills to their children. Patel also promoted tree planting to enhance greenery.

Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel on Thursday underscored the critical need to preserve India's traditional handicrafts to ensure these skills endure for future generations.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 'Craftroots' exhibition, a five-day showcase of crafts in Indore, Patel emphasized the country's rich heritage of traditional handicrafts and the necessity to maintain and pass on this legacy.

She stressed that artisans must transfer their unique skills to at least one of their children to keep the tradition alive. Citing her experience in Gujarat's Patan region, Patel noted the significant decline from 700 to just four families engaged in Patola saree weaving, highlighting urgent preservation efforts through 'Craftroots' that aim to sustain and revive the craft by connecting with new artisans.

In addition to her advocacy for handicrafts, Patel planted saplings at Indore's Residency Kothi and called for increased environmental efforts under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign to boost the green cover.

(With inputs from agencies.)