Nov 01 2026 to Nov 05 2026 11 a.m.

Price: Free

Where

Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath

No.1, Art Complex, Kumarakrupa Rd, near The Lalit Hotel, Kumara Park East 560001

Event Description

The Crafts Council of Karnataka, committed to promoting and preserving India’s rich craft heritage, presents Kuteera 2026 - Diwali Mela, a celebration of the country’s diverse craft traditions, festive customs and the many stories of Diwali. Organised under the leadership of Chairperson Mrs. Chandra Jain, with Mrs. Revathi Prasad as Exhibition Convener, the five-day Mela will bring together traditional craftsmanship, cultural storytelling and the festive spirit of India under one roof.

Speaking about the initiative, Mrs. Chandra Jain, Chairperson of the Crafts Council of Karnataka, says: “The Crafts Council of Karnataka is committed to promoting and preserving India’s craft heritage while supporting the artisans who keep these traditions alive. Kuteera has long served as a platform to showcase their work, and this year, it brings crafts, culture and the stories of Diwali together. From the diyas that illuminate our homes to the handcrafted objects that enrich our celebrations, artisans are an integral part of our festivals and sustain countless livelihoods. Kuteera celebrates this rich heritage, inviting everyone to discover, appreciate and take home a piece of India’s extraordinary craftsmanship.”

Mrs. Revathi Prasad, Convener of Kuteera 2026, adds:

“Kuteera celebrates India’s rich cultural heritage, the timeless beauty of its traditions and the creativity of its artisans. This Diwali, we invite everyone to experience the joy of craft and culture, while supporting the hands that keep our traditions alive. Every creation tells a story, carries a legacy and reflects a living tradition.”

From intricate wood carving, leather puppetry and traditional embroidery to handloom textiles, tribal jewellery, pottery, folk paintings, natural fibre crafts and metalwork, the Kuteera showcases the rich diversity of India’s handmade traditions.

Kuteera is also a celebration of the many stories of Diwali. Across India, the festival is celebrated through diverse rituals, customs and traditions, each reflecting the region’s unique cultural identity. Yet, they share a common spirit: the triumph of light over darkness, hope and renewal.

This year promises even more to look forward to, with an exciting line-up of workshops that will offer visitors opportunities to engage with craft and creativity in new ways. Activities include diya making and painting, palm-leaf folding and paper lantern making. Adding to the festive spirit, Geeta Ramanujam and the Kathalaya team will host storytelling sessions on the many stories of Diwali across all five days of the Mela, bringing the festival’s timeless tales and traditions to life for audiences of all ages.

With a special emphasis on handmade, sustainable and mindful celebration, Kuteera encourages visitors to appreciate not just the beauty of handcrafted objects, but also the people, skills and stories behind them.

An installation of Dhavanthari and the story will be prominently displayed at the venue. The Ayurveda element of Oil bath ritual is connected with the emergence of Dhanvanthari during Samudra manthan.

Kuteera 2026, Diwali Mela invites Bengaluru to celebrate the festive season through craft, culture and community and take home a little piece of India’s rich handmade heritage.

Venue: Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, Bengaluru
Date: November 1 – 5, 2026
Timings: 11 AM-9 PM daily
Entry: Free