Toshali Crafts Mela Transacts 5.71 cr, Attracts 7.63 lakh People so far

India Idol Junior Ananya Sritam Nanda enthrals audience.

BHUBANESWAR: The 10th Toshali National Crafts Mela-2015 has already transacted Rs 5.71 crore during last eight days while it attracted 7.63 lakh visitors till December 22.

The craft mela that started from December 15 is expected to attract around 12 lakh visitors this year. The Toshali Crafts Mela will culminate on December 27.

While over Rs 93 lakh of business was transacted on Tuesday itself, more than 80,000 visitors thronged the mela, said a release from the Odisha government on Wednesday.

Ananya Sritam Nanda, Indian Idol Junior-2015, performed on Wednesday with her melodious voice fascinating the audience gathered to enjoy her songs.

Artisans, weavers, painters and sculptors from all over the country are participating in the event and exhibiting their traditional and contemporary handicraft and handloom products at the craft mela.

About 445 stalls have been put up this year among which around 150 stalls have been dedicated to other states.

The Mela has a food court with 30 established hoteliers and restaurants which are catering various Odisha made and other delicacies.

The cultural programme is being performed every evening in collaboration with Odisha Sangeet Natak Academy and Department of Culture.