Craft, couture & curated finds: Kolkata comes alive with Naboborsho exhibits
Times of India | 12 April 2026
As a prelude to Naboborsho, Kolkata has been humming with festive energy at exhibitions over the past fortnight. From handloom saris, breezy cotton shirts, and chikankari sets in soft hues to quirky jewellery, bold bindis, aroma candles, embroidered cushion covers, and handcrafted ceramic artefacts, these spaces housed everything that makes for thoughtful gifting and effortless wardrobe refreshes.
Craft meets contemporary
What: Daksha- Crafting Voices 2026
by BANGLANATAK.COM
Where: Daga Nikunj, ALKA JALAN FOUNDATION
What was it about: The pop-up had it all. From Kotpad textiles, Sabai and Kashi grass, terracotta, Home decor pieces made of Dokra
and bamboo, Chhau and wooden masks, Kantha, Patachitra
An edit of artisanal elegance
What: Pink Gulab, curated by Mohua Chatterjee
Where: Kanoria Hall
What was it about: The pop-up offered a wide range of items, from sabeki & silver jewellery, dokra artefacts to cottons, Kanjeevaram saris, artsy gifting options, modal silk shirts, ceramic jewellery, and statement bindis. There were two stalls from Santiniketan as well
This pop-up is my way of creating a platform that celebrates handicraft brands and the artisans behind them, while keeping traditional craftsmanship alive
– Mohua Chatterjee
By women, for women
What: Built By Her, curated by Keya Biswas
Where: 32 Chowringhee Road
What was it about: The vibrant, women-led exhibition celebrated of creativity and entrepreneurship. It offered a curated mix of women-led brands across fashion, lifestyle, wellness, handcrafted and handloom products. The packed stalls were complemented by live culinary showcases, mixology classes, art demonstrations, and live DJ sets
I loved this initiative, it offers such a beautiful display of craftsmanship. It’s lovely to see so many talented women come together
– Usha Uthup
Seasonal moods
What: Spring Sale, presented by Dipti by Aankhi Bhattacharya
Where: IAS Officers’ Residency
What was it about: The exhibition was a curated showcase of contemporary fashion and craft, offering a wide range of handcrafted designs. From traditional jewellery and summer-friendly weaves to wedding-ready drapes like Benarasis and Patolas, it had it all. The stalls also featured clutches and ceramic artefacts, covering everything from gifting to dressing up