Crafts, Culture and Commerce: Inside Guwahati’s New PM Ekta Mall

A new cultural and commercial landmark is set to emerge in the North-East as the PM Ekta Mall in Guwahati opens its doors to visitors. Designed as a one-stop marketplace for artisans and craftsmen from across India, the mall represents a major initiative to promote traditional handicrafts, handloom products and district-specific specialties. The mall will be inaugurated by Narendra Modi and is expected to play a key role in boosting trade, tourism and cultural exchange in Assam and the wider North-Eastern region. Located at the Assam Trade Promotion Organisation complex in Betkuchi, near the Inter-State Bus Terminus along National Highway 37, the facility combines modern retail infrastructure with the rich artistic traditions of India.A Marketplace for India’s Diverse CraftsThe PM Ekta Mall has been envisioned as a platform where artisans from different parts of India can showcase their products under one roof. It will feature permanent stalls displaying products from various districts of Assam as well as other states. One of the key highlights of the mall is the promotion of the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative. This programme encourages each district to promote a unique product that reflects its cultural and economic identity. Visitors to the mall will find a wide range of items, including Traditional handicrafts , Handloom textiles Geographical Indication (GI) tagged products , Regional art forms and handmade items These products not only represent the creativity of artisans but also preserve centuries-old traditions passed down through generations. For many craftsmen who previously relied on small local markets, the Ekta Mall provides a national platform to reach customers from across the country and abroad.A Major Boost for Assam’s Tourism and EconomyGuwahati has long been considered the gateway to the North-East, and the establishment of the PM Ekta Mall is expected to strengthen its position as a cultural and tourism hub. The mall’s strategic location near major transport routes ensures easy accessibility for visitors arriving by road or bus. With tourists already visiting Assam for its wildlife sanctuaries, tea gardens and cultural festivals, the new marketplace adds another attraction to the city. By bringing together artisans from multiple states, the mall also reflects the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat”, a vision that celebrates India’s diversity while promoting unity. The initiative was announced in the Union Budget 2023–24, with an allocation of ₹5,000 crore for establishing Ekta Malls in different parts of the country. These malls are expected to act as permanent exhibition and sales centres for regional products.Modern Infrastructure with Cultural RootsWhile the mall celebrates traditional crafts, it also offers a modern and comfortable shopping experience for visitors. The facility features dedicated stalls for artisans and representatives from different states, allowing them to showcase their unique products in an organised and accessible setting. Along with shopping areas, the mall includes food courts serving a variety of regional cuisines, giving visitors a taste of India’s diverse culinary traditions. Spacious parking facilities, digital kiosks providing detailed information about products and artisans, and other visitor-friendly amenities have been incorporated to enhance the overall experience. This thoughtful combination of heritage and modern infrastructure aims to create a lively cultural destination where people can shop, learn and immerse themselves in India’s artistic diversity. More than just a retail centre, the mall serves as a cultural space that narrates the story of India’s craftsmanship through the products and traditions it proudly displays.Empowering Artisans and Local CommunitiesOne of the most significant aspects of the PM Ekta Mall is its potential to empower artisans and craftsmen who often struggle to find stable markets for their work. Across India, millions of families depend on handicrafts and handloom industries for their livelihood. However, many of these artisans face challenges such as limited exposure, middlemen controlling prices and shrinking demand in local markets. By providing a permanent platform where artisans can display and sell their products directly, the Ekta Mall could help them earn better income and gain recognition for their skills. For visitors, buying these products means more than purchasing souvenirs. It means supporting the people who keep India’s traditional art forms alive.Strengthening India’s Cultural IdentityThe creation of Ekta Malls across India reflects a larger effort to preserve and promote the country’s rich cultural heritage. In an era of rapid industrialisation and mass-produced goods, traditional crafts often struggle to compete. Initiatives like the PM Ekta Mall help ensure that these art forms continue to thrive. By bringing together products from different regions, the mall celebrates the diversity that defines India  from the vibrant textiles of Assam to the intricate handicrafts of other states.A New Cultural Landmark for the North-EastAs the PM Ekta Mall opens in Guwahati, it represents more than just a shopping destination. It symbolises a space where culture, commerce and community come together. For artisans, it offers recognition and opportunity. For tourists, it provides a unique cultural experience. And for the region, it marks a step forward in economic and tourism development. With its blend of tradition and modern infrastructure, the Ekta Mall is poised to become a landmark destination that celebrates India’s craftsmanship while strengthening the livelihoods of those who create it.