In a move to improve the economic status of the artisans, Lepakshi emporium is all set to open another outlet in the city soon. Announcing this here on Monday, emporium’s manager K. Nagaraju said that Gajuwaka and Kurmannapalem (near Visakhapatnam Steel Plant) areas were being considered for setting up the new store.
He said that the initiative was aimed at providing livelihood support to the artisans located in north Andhra region. “We are on the lookout for a suitable site. The prime objective is to encourage artisans belonging to Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, and Visakhapatnam districts. Special attention will be given to those earning a livelihood by crafting brass wares in Budithi village,” he said, and added that Lepakshi earned a profit of Rs.70 lakh during the last fiscal.
At present, the emporium at Jagadamba Junction offers 20 per cent discount on brass wares. Mr. Nagaraju said that the Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation would provide working capital to manufacturers of Bobbili veena.
A special training, lasting for six months, will be given to eight artisans of Narsipatnam to help them manufacture brass lamps.
To stay in tune with the festive season, Lepakshi is organising a 10-day imitation jewellery exhibition on its premises starting July 29.
In all, 10 craftspersons from Machilipatnam, Hyderabad, and Kolkata will be displaying a range of products, including one-gram gold ornaments and jute jewellery.
Shoppers can avail themselves of a 10 per cent discount on products put up at the exhibition that will be on till August 9.
It is aimed at providing livelihood support to artisans located in north Andhra region
