A Visit to an Exhibition
It was organized by the district authorities to encourage the introduction of cottage industries in villages. The district collector, RDO and the local leaders took a keen interest and put up a very good show. Never before had we realized that our village possessed such as vast scope for the development of cottage industries. We all felt that a vast heap of wealth was lying unused in villages.
The exhibition was held in the vast grounds of the banks of the river Cauvery. A temporary fence was erected on all sides and temporary stalls were built to accommodate exhibits of different articles.
The exhibitions lasted for about a week and were attended by thousands of people. Buying and selling worth thousands of rupees was done. The district authorities were pleased with its success.
First there were agricultural exhibits which the farmers had displayed. There were vegetables of all kinds and sizes. One farmer had a peculiar pumpkin which was praised by everybody. I was surprised to see a plum with resembled a red apple. There was also exhibited fine specimen of cereals which attracted much attentions. There were also remarkable specimens of carrots and radish, sweet potatoes and tomatoes of different tastes and colors.
Specimens of local pottery and tableware were also exhibited. There were pots made by rustic artisans. We saw apples, oranges, tomatoes, almonds, raisins and cardamoms of such fine shapes and colours that we could hardly distinguish them from the real ones. The different shade of color was so beautifully laid that they deceived even the sharpest eye. They received praise from all and the artist that made them was awarded a gold medal.
There were textile products manufactured by local weavers. Their delicacy of texture and finest of finish astonished us beyond any measure. We saw a piece of silk cloth which could beat in shimmer even the finest silk of China or Japan. The muslin made by a local weaver was so light and fine that it appeared as if it were a relic of the ancient Dacca art.
Besides these, a blacksmith had put models of an airplane and a rocket launcher which were highly appreciated. A carpenter had deployed a beautiful radio set and a goldsmith had made a wonderful golden idol of the lord Krishna.
The exhibition was a success in every way. The local authorities were able to collect nearly Rs. 2 Crores on the occasion. It was decided that the amount be sent in awarding pries for the bet exhibitors.
The need for organizing such exhibitions in our village and towns is greet at present. Local cottage industries can be given an impetus if such exhibitions are orgnaised from time to time. Local skill is not deficient and if property used can add greatly to the wealth of India.
