The India International Trade Fair offers us an opportunity to experience the world's diverse cultures under the same roof.
Ever since its inception in 1980, the India International Trade Fair has been a melting pot of cultures, offering a grand platform to traders, manufacturers, and importers & exporters from across the globe. This time, the event is even bigger and better with over 3500 exhibitors participating and 200 Geographical Indications (GIs) products displayed. From food to cultural programs to shopping to exhibitions to activities and more - there is something for everyone!
The India International Trade Fair (IITF) is in its 42nd edition this year, organized by the India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO), running from November 14 to November 27, at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The theme is 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', which means "The World is a Big Family", emphasizing India's strategies in shaping global economic policy.
Well, to be precise, this is one of the largest trade fairs in the world, both in terms of grandeur and visitors. This year, countries like Afghanistan, Iran, Bangladesh, Egypt, Kyrgyzstan, Thailand, Turkey, Tunisia, Nepal, and the UAE are actively taking part, bringing their cultures and commerce to the stage. As Krishan Kumar, deputy general manager of India Trade Promotion Organization, said in a statement, "We have organized the fair in 1,10,000 square feet space and will have 3,500 exhibitors including 400 private exhibitors, which were only 260 until last year. Also, for the first time, all 14 halls at Pragati Maidan will be used together for the fair since its recent renovation."
Equipped with advanced facilities, the 14-day-long event welcomes all to experience an extravaganza like no other. If you're going to visit this coming weekend, planning your activities in advance is a must, as there will be an insane crowd. In case you are wondering how to plan, read ahead to get a brief idea!
And hey, you are welcome!
It's a no-brainer that when you are at the IITF, shopping will be your first priority! Well, the options here are so many that you can never get enough of it. From clothes to jewelry, from dry fruits to varieties of pickles, from automobiles to electronic gadgets, from handicrafts to artworks, from cosmetics to kitchen appliances - you name it!
While shopping, you will get extensive exposure to the incredible beauty of global cultures. Whether it's the cotton gown from Thailand, woolen clothes from Nepal, high-quality dates and cashews from Afghanistan, pottery from Tunisia, or mosaic lamps from Turkey; the products are representatives of the land they come from.
As you explore the pavilions throughout the day, make sure to treat yourself with some delectable dishes in between. Well, the IITF is a culinary treasure trove, offering a variety of dishes from across the world. It has everything from popular street food items to traditional sweets to regional specialties to exotic delicacies to fusion cuisine and more.
For the best experience, start with street food items like chaat, golgappa, and kebabs. Then, try special items from different states, such as Punjab's Naan and Kulcha, Lucknow's Awadhi Biryani, Bihar's Litti-Choka, Kerala's curry, etc. If you want to explore global cuisines, go for Afghan or Turkish dishes first, and then European delicacies. In the end, satiate your sweet tooth with traditional items like rasgulla or gulab jamun and some exotic desserts like mousse or pastries.
It's worth noting that there are a few culinary workshops as well that you can attend to enhance your culinary knowledge.
The IITF is not just about business, culture, and food; it also offers an incredible range of entertainment activities to provide the greatest experience possible. Firstly, there are expansive exhibitions of art and handicrafts which are must-visit for one and all. These exhibitions showcase the heritage of Indian craftsmanship, along with the creative process of international artists. There are educational exhibitions (focusing on science, technology, history, etc.) providing valuable insights about the world in a very entertaining manner. However, if you aren't into exhibitions, go to the games section and take part in the amazing games. And if you have kids, take them to the Kids Play Zone where there are different kinds of activities for children. In addition to these, the event has a stage for cultural performances including dance, live music, drama, and more. From Bhangra to Chhau to Kathakali to Western Music and more - it offers an excellent experience that you can cherish for the rest of your life.
