National Crafts Museum Event Strengthens Cultural Connect with BRICS Nations
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in collaboration with the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) under the Ministry of Textiles, organised a special cultural evening for BRICS Sherpas and Sous Sherpas at the National Crafts Museum (NCM & HKA), New Delhi, on 10 February 2026, after the successful conclusion of the first meeting of BRICS Sherpas and Sous Sherpas held on 9–10 February 2026 in New Delhi under India’s Chairmanship. The event was aimed at showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage, traditional crafts, and living traditions, including art, music, and cuisine.
The Sherpas from Brazil, Russia, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Iran, and Indonesia participated in the occasion. The event was also attended by ambassadors from BRICS member and partner countries and nearly 30 foreign delegates.
The Secretary (Economic Relations), India’s BRICS Sherpa, hosted the event supported by the Joint Secretary (Multilateral Economic Relations), India’s BRICS Sous Sherpa. The delegation also included the Secretaries from Ministry of Health, DPIIT and Revenue Department, and a team of 30 MEA officers and officers from National Crafts Museum from the Indian side.
The delegates were taken on a guided tour of the museum galleries by the volunteer guides. During the tour, they were introduced to India’s diverse crafts, folk art, and traditional practices.
To mark the occasion, special artisan stalls featuring Black Pottery, Chamba Rumal, Kalamkari, Lac Bangles, and Papier Mâché were set up by the Museum’s artisans within the premises. These stalls displayed traditional handicrafts and handloom products from various regions of India and attracted significant interest from the guests.
The delegates expressed appreciation for India’s efforts in preserving traditional arts and crafts and promoting artisans at the international level.
