LUCKNOW: The Uttar Pradesh government will organise "Mati Kala Mela" from October 14 to 23 in Lucknow on the occasion of Diwali. This is a bid to promote the art of pottery and clayware and improve the economic state of affairs of clay artisans.

The initiative also aims to reduce the sale of Chinese idols and products during the holiday season, and regain the home market.

According to a government spokeswoman, the 10-day exhibition will be presented at the Sangeet Natak Academy by the UP Mati Kala Board. The Mela will include handcrafted clay objects manufactured by artisans from across Uttar Pradesh. Craftsmen from all throughout the state will be displaying their skills and talents through their products at the expo.

The Mati Kala Board will cover the cost of the participating craftsmen' housing for ten days. The craftsmen will also be spared from stall fees.

The fair will feature terracotta from Gorakhpur, black pottery from Azamgarh, earthen cookers from Kurja, and clay goods from Agra, Lucknow, Mirzapur, Azamgarh, Chandauli, Unnao, Ballia, Kanpur, Pilibhit, Allahabad, Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Banda.

This Diwali, products such as idols of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Lakshmi, ornamental lamps and diyas, earthen lamps, and other clay and handcrafted products will be available at the show, which will promote 'Vocal for Local.'

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