Gandhinagar, Jan 22 (NationPress) The Sakhi Craft Bazaar, held during the Rann Utsav in Kutch, has become a significant platform for women-led entrepreneurship, achieving sales exceeding Rs 5 crore within just a month of its inauguration.

This bazaar has drawn over 4.5 lakh visitors, marking it as one of the standout features of this year’s Rann Utsav.

The event, taking place from December 4, 2025, to January 15, 2026, is organized under the guidance and vision of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, as part of the state government’s extensive efforts to enhance the economic independence of women throughout Gujarat.

This initiative is in line with the government’s mission to create sustainable livelihood opportunities for women via self-help groups (SHGs).

The bazaar is housed within a large, uniquely designed dome featuring 100 stalls that showcase products crafted by women from 330 self-help groups at various stages of development.

Participating SHG members hail not only from Gujarat but from various other states, adding a national dimension to the market. For many women artisans, this platform has offered direct access to a vast and diverse consumer base.

Visitors to the Sakhi Craft Bazaar can explore a diverse assortment of products, including handicrafts, handloom textiles, pottery, jewellery, home décor items, and packaged food products.

The offerings are a harmonious fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern design, appealing to both domestic and international tourists alike.

The vibrant atmosphere of the bazaar is further enriched by live music and a cafeteria, making it a favored spot within the Rann Utsav grounds.

Tourism officials have noted that visiting the Sakhi Craft Bazaar has become an unforgettable experience for tourists, many of whom spend a significant amount of time engaging with artisans and discovering the narratives behind the products.

The impressive sales figures highlight the increasing market acceptance of products created by women-led self-help groups. This initiative is backed by the Rural Development Department, Government of Gujarat, through the Gujarat Livelihood Promotion Company Limited.

Under this framework, the state hosts two national-level fairs and 10 to 12 regional fairs annually to promote the marketing of products crafted by Sakhi Mandal members.

This year, the initiative has expanded significantly, moving beyond traditional fairs to include shopping festivals, Sakhi markets in major malls, flea markets, Swadeshi Melas, and special arrangements for the sale and promotion of Sakhi Mandal products during tourism events.

Officials have stated that these endeavors aim to ensure continuous market access, improved branding, and increased income for women entrepreneurs.

With strong foot traffic, impressive sales, and enhanced visibility, the Sakhi Craft Bazaar at the Rann Utsav is being viewed as a successful model demonstrating how tourism-related initiatives can be utilized to bolster women’s livelihoods and foster inclusive economic growth in Gujarat.