Asia: India, 2003
Asha Handicrafts
Entrance at Asha Handicrafts Association
decorated with flowers and diyas
At Asha, the staff decided to create an ambience of Indian-ness, with the men-folk strutting around in traditional kurta wear and the women elegantly dressed in sarees or salwar kameez, and with Shehnai music. The stage was set for a wonderful evening programme with Chief Guest Mr. Arun Raste, Executive Director of Indian Resources for Fairer Trade, other invitees and special guests, and artisans joining from various parts of the country.
CEO Lucas Caldeira and Chief Guest Arun Raste welcomed with Shenai
The event, a happy mix of information and entertainment, was launched with an Indian dance performance by the children of Borivili-Mumbai. This was followed by a welcome address from Mr. Immanuel Bundellu, Crafts Promotion Manager, and the lighting of the lamp by our Chief Guest and many Asha stakeholder representatives. Mr Raste then gave a short speech on World Fair Trade Day and launched our Insect Go candle created by Silence. Next an Awards Cerermony was held to acknowledge good and conscientious work. The winners were: Mr. Chotelal Sharma of R.C.Marble for good packing, Mr. Shahnawaz of Amina for good quality, Mr. Nagendra Rao of Bunder Kalamkari for timely delivery and Mr. Mohd. Sayeed of Mohd. Sayeed and Sons for regular communication with Asha on orders. After this ceremony to congratulate and encourage, we had a power point presentation on Asha's activities and role. The highlight of the evening was the Fashion Show, in which products from various states were presented. Our CEO, Mr. Lucas Caldeira, ended the evening with a word of thanks to all those actively involved in the preparation, including volunteers Ms. Romilla Martins, who trained the children for the dance, and Mr. Abhijeet, who choreographed the fashion show.
Welcome dance performed by the children of Borivili
Fashion show presented by the youth of Bandra
All good things have to come to an end. The month-long preparation finally came to an end. But not everything ended with the programme. Many of those who attended have volunteered to be a part of the Fair Trade movement. We hope that many will chip in to keep the flame of justice and love burning brightly.
For more on Asha's activities or a copy of the WFTDay power point presentation, contact Daisy D'Silva at partner@vsnl.com.
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