Empowerment in Action: Saras Mela Hits ₹1.5 Crore in Sales as Women Entrepreneurs Take Center Stage

The Bihar Saras Mela has opened to a spectacular reception, transforming Gandhi Maidan into a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, and women’s empowerment. The fair recorded an overwhelming footfall of over 80,000 visitors on its first Sunday alone, driving sales past the ₹1.5 crore mark within just two days of opening.

This year’s edition is a massive showcase of resilience and skill, featuring over 500 stalls. The event highlights the work of 209 “Jeevika Didis” from across all 38 districts of Bihar, standing alongside 76 women entrepreneurs from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) representing 24 other states.

From Manual Labour to Masterpieces

Among the diverse array of regional handicrafts, one stall has captivated the crowd’s imagination. Krishna Devi, an entrepreneur from Sheikhpura, is turning heads with her exquisite Tanjore paintings. Her centrepiece, a Lakshmi Devi painting crafted with 22-carat gold foil and semi-precious stones, is priced at ₹2.55 lakh.

Krishna Devi’s journey is as inspiring as her art. “I learned this art while working as a labourer in Chennai before the pandemic,” she shared. “With government-aided loans, I set up my own business.” This is her fourth year at the mela; last year, her stall generated a staggering ₹12 lakh in revenue.

A National Platform for Resilience

The fair serves as a critical economic lifeline for women from across India, some of whom face significant challenges at home.

• Manipur: Naocha, a handloom artisan participating for the third year, views Patna as a haven for her business amidst the unrest in her home state. As the sole breadwinner for a family of five, she sells winter garments ranging from ₹150 coasters to ₹2,200 shawls. “I make around ₹1 lakh here, most of which goes towards loan repayment,” she explained.
• Delhi: Karuna Kumari, who runs a suit business, emphasised the structural support SHGs provide. “The Saras Mela gives us direct market exposure and access to essential resources like training and loans, which help us grow beyond local markets,” she noted.
• Jaipur: Faridi, representing a traditional comforter business, described the mela as a vital annual event that secures a significant portion of her family’s yearly income.

Public Appreciation

Visitors have been quick to praise both the products and the purpose behind the fair. Anjali, a resident of Boring Road, remarked on the joy of seeing diverse crafts in one location and directly supporting women. Similarly, Rajesh Kumar from Patliputra noted, “The quality of products is excellent, and the stories of these women achieving financial independence are truly inspiring.