Home to more than 200 tribes, the North East is one of the most diverse areas of India. It is not surprising then that the stalls from the North-Eastern states, exhibiting a wide range of products, form the pride of place in the ‘Aadi Mahotsav’ currently underway at Dilli Haat in New Delhi.

The North-East tribes have a rich crafts tradition, which reflects their innate natural simplicity and earthiness. A glimpse of this tradition is on display here. Be it superior Bodo weaves made of cotton; the famed silk textiles, the warm cups and woven shawls from Nagaland and Manipur; or in the beautiful bamboo work from Assam, in the form of baskets, cane chairs, pen and lampstands, or in the rich organic natural produce which acts as excellent immunity boosters such as honey, spices, and other herbs; everything can be found here.

The Bodo weavers, earlier limited to running fabrics, now their product range has expanded. You can get kurtas, dresses, stoles, shawls, skirts, tops and Kurtis as well as other accessories. Moga silk saris, mekhala chador and pretty embroidered blouses from Assam; knitted caps, booties for kids, and pouches from Sikkim and Manipur are also available for sale here. The tribals of the North-East still produce weaves using the older back-strap loom and you can get vibrant bags, pillow covers, pouches made in this way. The weaves have designs clearly inspired by nature and are classy, sustainable, comfortable as well.

Another highlight is the pottery items made in the village of Longpi by the Thankul Naga tribes of Manipur. The stalls with the grey-black pots, kettles, mugs, bowls and trays stand out in the crowd. What is exceptional about these is that they are not made using the potter’s wheel; instead shaping is done with the hand using some moulds.

Visitors can also get high-quality organic food products such as Joha rice from Assam; the black rice from Manipur; pulses, spices such as large cardamom from Sikkim, cinnamon from Meghalaya, Lakadong turmeric from Meghalaya and the well-known Naga chilis. You can taste some authentic North-eastern cuisine as well at the Aadi Vyanjan.

A visit to the fortnight-long Aadi Mahotsav is a good way to experience the vibrant and unique culture of the North-Eastern tribal people. It is an annual event that was started in the year 2017. Due to the pandemic, the 2020 edition of the festival could not be held.