Established in 1957 under the royal patronage
of the then Choygal, Directorate of Handicrafts and Handlooms
(DHH), Gangtok, has been able to preserve and promote the
rich cultural legacy of the Himalayan state.
When it was first established, it was known as Palden Thendup
Cottage Industries with just 28 trainees in four crafts ~
thanka painting, carpet weaving, handloom weaving and handmade
paper making. The name was later changed to Government Institute
of Cottage Industries in 1974. In 1980, its name was again
changed as Directorate of Handicrafts and Handlooms (DHH).
Today DHH stands as a beacon of light to hundreds of artistes
and craftsman in the state who undergo vigorous training at
its twenty nine branches spread across the state. The memories
of past achievements are set to come alive during the golden
jubilee celebrations of DHH which is starting from 1 April.
An elaborate itinerary has been chalked out by the DHH for
its 10-day golden jubilee celebrations, said Miss Namrata
Thapa, director, DHH. Apart from craft mela that will see
participation of all Northeastern states along with West Bengal,
photo exhibition, theme pavilion and cultural bonanza are
the major highlights of the celebrations, she said.
Chief minister Mr Pawan Kumar Chamling will be inaugurating
the celebrations on 1 April. He will also be launching the
website of the institute, besides releasing a souvenir on
the occasion. Former employees of DHH will also be felicitated
by the chief minister, said Miss Thapa.
DHH will be giving a live demonstration on natural dye and
handmade paper making. The celebrations would also be a platform
to share new ideas on crafts by the participants from NE states,
Miss Thapa, said. "The main objective of the DHH is to
impart training on different crafts ranging from carpet making
to cane and bamboo products thereby ensuring protection of
traditional cultural items and to blend them with new ideas,"
she added. The DHH is also a major draw among tourists even
in the off season. "We are hopeful of a good response
from the tourists during our golden jubilee celebrations",
Miss Thapa, said. Having obtained several achievements since
its inception, the DHH has also participated actively in national
fairs.
Courtesy: The Statesman |
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