Pawan Kalyan’s Vision for Handicraft Tourism: Andhra Pradesh Plans Global Recognition for Traditional Arts

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has announced a major initiative to promote the state’s traditional handicrafts by developing handicraft tourism on the lines of temple tourism and eco-tourism. He stated that the government’s priority is to protect centuries-old art forms, support artisans, and ensure that the talent behind every handmade product receives national and international recognition.

Speaking at the inauguration of Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Mahotsav 2026 organised by the Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation (Lepakshi) in Vijayawada, Pawan Kalyan said that the struggles, dedication, and creativity of artisans should be introduced to the world through special documentaries and promotional initiatives.

During his visit to the exhibition, the Deputy Chief Minister interacted with artisans from different parts of the state and personally examined their unique creations. He watched a traditional Tholu Bommalata (leather puppet show) performance depicting the “Ravana Samharam” episode from the Ramayana and appreciated the artists for preserving the ancient art form. He assured that special Tholu Bommalata performances would be organised during the upcoming Godavari Pushkarams to promote this cultural heritage.

Pawan Kalyan also visited stalls featuring Uppada Jamdani sarees, Kalamkari artworks, Tirupati wooden crafts, Narasapur lace products, banana fibre items, and tribal Savara art. He purchased Uppada sarees for his wife Anna Konidela and encouraged artisans by buying handmade products.

A key highlight of his announcement was the introduction of QR codes on handicraft products, which will provide details about the artisan, the history of the artwork, and the creative process behind each piece. He said this initiative would help artists get proper identity and recognition for their craftsmanship.

The Deputy Chief Minister also focused on the welfare of artisans and directed officials to organise regular health camps at cluster levels. He noted that craftsmen often face health problems due to their work, including eye-related issues among lace makers and respiratory and physical ailments among weavers and Kalamkari artists.

Under the VB G Ram G Scheme, the government plans to establish Common Facility Centres in various artisan clusters to provide better infrastructure and support. Special training programmes for Eluru carpet artisans and Anantapur banana fibre craftsmen were also launched.

Pawan Kalyan further unveiled the Lepakshi E-Commerce App, which aims to provide global marketing opportunities for Andhra Pradesh’s handicraft products. With these initiatives, the government aims to preserve traditional arts, empower artisans, and take the state’s cultural treasures to international markets.