The Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery (IIGJ), Jaipur, inaugurated its annual crafts fair Alankar 2025 on September 25th with a vibrant showcase of India’s rich jewellery traditions. The three-day event, running till September 27th, brings together artisans, students, and craft enthusiasts under one roof.
The fair was inaugurated by Chief Guest Mr. Rishav Mandal, IAS, Commissioner and Managing Director, Department of Skill, Employment and Entrepreneurship, and Managing Director, RSLDC. He was welcomed by Mr. Sanjay Kala, Vice President, IIGJ Jaipur; Mr. Yogendra Garg, Regional Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. D.P. Khandelwal, Board Member; Mr. Sakhil Dhadda; Mr. Neeraj Lunawat, Honorary Secretary, Jewellery Association Jaipur; Mr. Nitin Khandelwal, Regional Director, GJEPC; Mr. Divyanshu Agarwal, Registrar; Mr. Anish Kapil, Principal, faculty members and students.
Appreciating IIGJ’s efforts, Mr. Mandal assured full support from the Government of Rajasthan towards the institute’s skill development initiatives.
This year’s fair features live demonstrations of traditional jewellery crafts by renowned artisans from across the country. Highlights include lacquer jewellery by Gulrakh Sultana, pachchikam jewellery by Firoz and Jaba Khan, gemstone carving by Amrit Sirohiya, bead jewellery by Mahendra Soni, patwa art by Kailash, and terracotta jewellery by Lokesh Baswa.
In addition, IIGJ students are conducting hands-on workshops in beadwork, macramé, clay, resin, crochet, and wire jewellery. Organisers highlighted that “Alankar is a platform where students connect with India’s craft heritage by learning directly from traditional artisans. It is a unique opportunity for art lovers, design students, and craftspeople to engage with these timeless skills.”
The opening day witnessed enthusiastic participation, with nearly 300 students from Jaipur schools attending the workshops and activities.