The highly anticipated Sale of Articles of Rural Artisans Society (SARAS) Fair 2025 recently wrapped up in Hyderabad on Monday, September 29th, marking a significant triumph for women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) nationwide. This captivating national exhibition welcomed over 100,000 enthusiastic visitors, eager to explore and support the remarkable creations of rural women artisans. The event saw a strong turnout from corporate professionals and IT corridor employees, who embraced the festive atmosphere for their shopping and championed these inspiring women-led enterprises.
Hosted by Telangana’s Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty (SERP), the fair captivated audiences from September 18th to 29th at the Indira Mahila Shakti Bazaar in Madhapur, conveniently located next to Shilparamam. Boasting an impressive array of over 150 stalls, the exhibition proudly displayed exquisite handlooms, intricate handicrafts, luxurious silks, unique ornaments, diverse food products, sustainable biodegradable items, and high-quality leather goods, all meticulously crafted by talented rural women. SHGs representing more than 20 states and Union Territories, from the majestic landscapes of Ladakh to the vibrant cultures of Punjab, Gujarat, Kerala, West Bengal, Maharashtra, and the North Eastern states, converged to share their artistry.
Beyond the bustling sales and vibrant displays, the fair offered a rich tapestry of daily cultural performances, including soulful Telangana folk songs and energetic dance routines, which thoroughly entertained the appreciative crowds. A delightful multi-cuisine food court added to the sensory experience, tempting visitors with an array of regional favorites like authentic Hyderabadi biryani, savory haleem, traditional sarva pindi, and the beloved Irani chai.
Officials from SERP emphasized the profound impact of this initiative, explaining that the SARAS Fair transcended mere commercial transactions. Its core mission was to empower rural women by enhancing their capabilities to thrive in broader markets. To achieve this, comprehensive training sessions were conducted, focusing on crucial aspects such as innovative product design, essential financial literacy, and effective marketing strategies, all designed to cultivate and strengthen their entrepreneurial prowess.