Authorities propose exclusive village for artisans in Pen

Mumbai: An exclusive village for artisans to display their talent is being proposed on a sprawling 100-acre area in Pen, Raigad, about 85 kilometres south of Mumbai, where the beautiful natural surroundings and local art is expected to boost tourism.

To be styled on the capital's Dilli Haat - an upgraded version of the traditional weekly rural market that offers a colourful collection of craft, food and cultural activities - the Pen artisans centre will be on a much larger scale.

"This location situated on the Mumbai-Goa highway was identified because of the rich artistic traditions of this region famous for clay sculptures of Ganesh, that have long been exported to various places," an official of the Mumbai Metropolitan Regional Development Authority (MMRDA), told Gulf News.

"The village will be built with all amenities and facilities required for artisans, with a special preference for local craftsmen. However, crafts from all over the country will also be displayed and sold here, he added.

Traditionally, the village market was mobile, with artisans going from place to place but this will be a permanent place for them, offering visitors an exciting range of handicrafts.

The MMRDA, which is venturing into the rural area for the first time, has yet to present the proposal to the government for its approval.

The Pen village market will stock a collection of paintings, metalware, stonework, wood carvings, terracotta figurines, jewellery, leather items, blue pottery, home décor artifacts, traditional Indian puppets, lac and glass work.

Planners want to create a perfect ambience not just for tourists but for families by providing play areas for children and recreational facilities.

Crafts apart, regional cuisine will also be highlighted along with dance and drama performances.

While Dilli Haat is located right in the heart of the city, it will take around one and a half hours to reach the Pen artisans village.

But the MMRDA is hopeful the journey will be worth the trouble, as it is a "unique village market for urban folk".