AP handicrafts to be gifted at R-Day event in Singapore

Andhra Pradesh’s traditional handicrafts will gain international exposure as curated gift boxes featuring the State’s art forms are set to be presented during India’s Republic Day celebrations in Singapore.

Minister for BC Welfare, EWS Welfare, Handlooms and Textiles S. Savitha said on Saturday that the Indian High Commission in Singapore has placed an order with Lepakshi for 400 specially curated gift boxes. Lepakshi is the State-run handicrafts brand.

Each box will feature select Andhra Pradesh crafts, including Goddess Sita leather puppetry, elephant-shaped baggage tags, and hand-painted coasters with elephant motifs, reflecting the State’s rich artistic heritage.

The Minister said the order signals growing global recognition for AP handicrafts. She recalled that during last year’s Republic Day celebrations, an Andhra Pradesh tableau showcasing traditional crafts drew wide appreciation.

Ms Savitha said the coalition government has been extending strong support to artisans and the handicrafts sector. The focus, she said, is on skill upgradation and training artisans to blend traditional art forms with contemporary designs. Steps are also being taken to strengthen Lepakshi as a brand.

As part of these efforts, 15 Lepakshi showrooms in key centres such as Visakhapatnam, Anantapur, and Kadapa are being modernised. Plans are also underway to open Lepakshi outlets in other countries to promote Andhra Pradesh handicrafts in global markets, the Minister added.