Not just a mela, ‘Udaan’ gives wings to hidden talent

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Every talent deserves a chance to be seen and appreciated. Sometimes, all it needs is a platform to reach the right audience. This thought lies at the heart of “Udaan”, an exhibition that brings talented individuals together to showcase their skills and connect with potential customers.

The idea took shape after its founder came across several people doing commendable work but struggling to find customers. Their skills were evident, but avenues to display their creations remained limited.

“I felt that many people were doing wonderful work, but their talent needed to come forward. I wanted to create a platform where they could come together and showcase what they do,” says the founder.

With the support of her husband, a government official, she turned the idea into reality, naming it “Udaan”, symbolising growth, recognition and progress. “Behind every successful idea is a support system that believes in it, and my husband and family have been my biggest strength in turning Udaan into reality,” she added.

The exhibition celebrates skills ranging from cooking and knitting to painting, jewellery-making and other handicrafts, bringing together creators from diverse backgrounds.

For the organiser, the value of a handmade product goes beyond its price tag. Small artisans and independent creators often remain overlooked, even when their work matches the quality of products available in established stores.

“We often pay for a product in a mall without hesitation, but may overlook the same kind of skill when it comes from a small creator. I want people to recognise the effort and creativity behind these products,” she adds.

The fifth edition of the “Udaan Diwali Mela” is being held on October 24 and 25 at Pancham Society, Sector 68, Mohali, from noon to 8 pm. Visitors can explore clothing, jewellery, home décor, candles, festive goodies and handcrafted products. Games and festive activities will add to the experience, making it an outing for families while encouraging shoppers to support independent businesses.

For participants, the exhibition is more than a place to display products. It allows them to interact directly with visitors, explain their creative process and share the stories behind their ventures. Every stall reflects the time, effort and imagination invested in turning an individual skill into a product.

Earlier editions featured around 14 stalls, bringing together people with different skills and ventures. The response encouraged the organisers to continue the initiative and expand its reach.

For creators without established retail networks or extensive marketing resources, such exhibitions can help build customer relationships, gather feedback and turn a passion into a source of income. Even a purchase or recommendation can help a small business grow beyond the event.

What began with the belief that talented people deserved a platform has grown into an initiative celebrating creativity, entrepreneurship and the value of homegrown products.

Because sometimes, all a dream needs is a chance to take flight.