Unity Mall at Rushikonda to Showcase India’s Crafts and Boost Vizag Tourism
Visakhapatnam will soon host a Unity Mall at Rushikonda, next to Ramanatha Film Studio. Designed as a national showcase for traditional crafts, the five-acre project is being developed with funding from both the Central and State governments, with the Centre approving Rs 172 crore.
Officials said the mall will house 36 commercial units, each assigned to a state or union territory to display handlooms, handicrafts, and native products. R. Vijayalakshmi, a craft economy researcher, said the idea provides a permanent retail venue instead of relying only on exhibitions.
The plan also includes 26 retail spaces to highlight Andhra Pradesh’s district specialties such as Ponduru khadi from Srikakulam, Etikoppaka toys from Anakapalli, Araku coffee from Alluri Seetharama Raju district, and Kalamkari from Krishna district.
According to handloom cooperative adviser A. Gangadhar, rural artisans rarely get steady exposure. A permanent outlet like this, he said, can improve their earnings.
Once operational, the mall will offer residents and tourists access to products from across India and all 26 districts of Andhra Pradesh in one place. Heritage retail consultant Dr. S. Prabhakar said the setup may help small producers expand their markets by enabling direct interaction with buyers and exporters.
Besides craft outlets, the mall will include general retail stores, gaming zones, food courts and a convention hall, creating a complete shopping and leisure destination.
Urban planners say the project could boost tourism and local enterprise. Architect and city development advisor K. Sruthi noted that Visakhapatnam needs cultural anchors and this project could attract both locals and visitors.
Stakeholders hope the Unity Mall grows into a vibrant centre for culture, commerce and recreation, helping Visakhapatnam strengthen its identity in the national retail landscape.