Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 17: The SARAS Mela 2025 continued to attract large crowds on its fourth day at the ITF Ground, with vibrant exhibitions, cultural performances, and an impressive display of rural products from across the Islands.
The highlight of Day 4 was Dance performance by Punarvi and Drishita from Kurundham Helping Hands NGO, Adhivasi folk dance by Diglipur SHG members and Dance performance by Srusti from Kurundham. Participants from different SHGs and individuals exhibited exceptional talent, drawing appreciation from visitors and judges.
Throughout the day, visitors explored stalls set up by Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the DAY-NRLM and other Rural Development initiatives, featuring handmade crafts, organic products, spices, handicrafts, garments, and traditional food items. Live demonstrations and interactions with artisans provided deeper insights into local craftsmanship.
In the evening, a cultural programme featuring folk performances, traditional dances, and youth-led art presentations added charm to the festivities. Food stalls offering local and regional cuisines continued to be a major attraction.
The Mela maintained the strong momentum of Day 3, which recorded sales of Rs. 4.6 lakh. SHG stalls remained a key attraction with their diverse handmade products, while the Food Court continued to draw heavy crowds. The West Bengal stall stood out with nearly Rs. 41,000 in sales, emerging as one of the top performers of the day.
The SARAS Mela will continue till Nov. 23, inviting the public to support rural entrepreneurs and enjoy the blend of culture, creativity, and community spirit.