Anwesha Santra
The 13th Sargaalaya International Arts and Crafts Festival turned Iringal into a global arts hub, hosting 17 countries, 300+ artists, and over 100 stalls across 20 vibrant days of culture, tourism, food, and performance.
Artisans from India joined participants from Uganda, Iran, Syria, Uzbekistan, Russia, Egypt, Israel, Thailand, Nepal, Belarus, Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Taiwan, creating a rare shared platform of global craftsmanship.
From Aranmula mirrors and Bastar iron craft to Kashmiri embroidery, Kalamkari bags, khadi garments and cane products, visitors discovered diverse handmade traditions, many presented by state and national award-winning artisans.
A special exhibition introduced Kalaripayattu, traditional Kalari spaces, Ayurveda and Marma Vidya, giving visitors insight into Kerala’s martial art legacy and its deep connection to holistic healing traditions.
The first ever flower show spanned 10,000 square feet, featuring over 100 plant species, curated gardens, selfie points, fountains and vibrant lighting, quickly becoming the visual centrepiece of the festival.
Evenings unfolded along the Moorad river with open-air dance, music, and folk performances. Visitors relaxed with pedal boating or sought thrills with motor boating against a scenic riverside backdrop.
The food festival served Kerala Malabari favourites alongside dishes from Iran, Uzbekistan and Nepal, plus Rajasthani vegetarian meals. Bun maska and Irani chai added nostalgic flavours to the riverside dining experience.
Inaugurated by P A Mohamed Riyas, the festival drew national attention. A ministry of textiles delegation studied the Sargaalaya model, later listing it as a model project for crafts tourism in India.