June 3rd, 2026: Kashi, the parliamentary constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and one of the world's oldest living cities, is once again set to witness a historic international event. After successfully hosting G20 meetings, Varanasi will now host the second meeting of the BRICS Culture Working Group on June 4 and 5.
The meeting, scheduled to be held at Taj Hotel on June 4 and 5, will bring together senior diplomats, policymakers, cultural experts and distinguished delegates from India and abroad.
Under the Yogi government, Uttar Pradesh is increasingly emerging as a major centre for global events. The continuous efforts of the state government towards preserving cultural heritage, promoting tourism, supporting local products and generating employment have resulted in Kashi once again getting an opportunity to present its rich cultural identity on an international platform.
A special exhibition of Kashi's world-famous GI-tagged and ODOP (One District One Product) products will also be organized during the meeting. At the exhibition, six artisans will display six unique products representing Varanasi's rich craft traditions. These products are living symbols of Kashi's centuries-old art, craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Through the exhibition, foreign delegates will not only be introduced to the uniqueness of these products, but local artists and artisans will also get an opportunity to showcase their products to the global market.
Under the leadership of the Yogi government, several initiatives have been undertaken to promote the preservation, marketing and export of ODOP and GI-tagged products. These efforts have provided new recognition and employment opportunities to thousands of artisans, weavers and craftsmen. Today, Kashi's handicraft products have established a distinct identity not only across India but also in many countries around the world.
BRICS member countries
Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Proposed GI and ODOP Products to be displayed
- Banaras Gulabi Meenakari Craft
- Banaras Brocade and Saree
- Varanasi Soft Stone Jali Work
- Varanasi Wooden Lacquerware and Toys
- Banaras Metal Repousse Craft
- Banaras Glass Beads
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The presence of representatives from BRICS countries has brought a major opportunity for local artists and entrepreneurs. Directly showcasing their products before foreign delegates will increase export possibilities and open access to international markets. This will strengthen the local economy and give Kashi's traditional crafts a new global identity.
Padma Shri Rajnikant
GI Expert
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International events provide a large platform. The display of handicrafts at the BRICS meeting will help artisans take their skills from local markets to global markets.
Rameshwar Singh
National Awardee
Varanasi Wooden Lacquerware and Toys
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Modi Ji and Yogi Ji themselves are brand ambassadors of GI and ODOP products. They have given a new identity to the state's handicrafts and helped revive ancient dying art forms. This exhibition will promote Varanasi's handicraft products. Distinguished guests from India and abroad will get an opportunity to learn about Kashi's art and understand the finer aspects of these handicrafts. The possibility of receiving new orders through this platform will also increase.
Kunj Bihari
National Awardee, Gulabi Meenakari
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We are getting an opportunity to showcase the country's cultural heritage on the global stage. Such occasions help take our heritage to new heights.
Durga Prasad Patel
Artisan, Glass Beads.
