newznew (Chandigarh) : The Annual Poolside Baisakhi Mela at Taj Chandigarh has over the years created a niche for itself by creating a festive ambience and bringing some of the best of authentic Punjabi cuisine to the table. Continuing with this trend, this year too, the food festival opened with great élan on the 7^th of April.

This year the mela also hosts phulkari makers from Bassi Pathana. Operating under Mehar Baba Charitable Trust, an NGO that works towards empowering women by taking care of their health, literacy and vocational skills, these self-help phulkari makers have displayed their art in many forms.

The traditional bhaags are most definitely the star of the display, with a large variety being available in terms of the fabric and well as the designs. A selfie wall created with these drapes has become very popular in the mela. Phulkari stoles, kurtis, dupattas and even juttis have been displayed here. Guests can even buy phulkari bookmarks, clutch bags, file folders and fancy potli bags too. The range in terms of product variety is indeed extensive. Guests can interact with the phulkari artisans and also see them working their art.

The display stall has been provided with compliments from Hotel Taj Chandigarh and all sales proceeds will go directly to the NGO.