An exhibition of Indian handicrafts started in Colombo yesterday amidst huge public enthusiasm. Organized as a part of Festival of India in Sri Lanka, the five day long exhibition showcases 23 Indian artisans and traditional handicrafts from India. The exhibition has been organised by the High Commission of India in Colombo and Investment and Technology Promotion Division of Ministry of External Affairs.<br/><br/>AIR correspondent reports, inaugurating Shilpa Kala, an exhibition of Indian handicrafts in Colombo, Sri Lanka's Minister for International Trade, Mr. Sujeewa Senasinghe said that Indian expertise in traditional crafts and its marketing can be used by Sri Lanka to provide economic opportunities to a large number of its people. Speaking on the occasion, Chairman of Dastakari Haat Samiti of India, Ms Jaya Jaitley said that Indian artists and artisans are diplomats for the country who are projecting India's soft power globally. Indian High Commissioner Mr Y K Sinha said that the exhibition is a part of six-month long Festival of India that was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Sri Lanka last year. The exhibition has been an immediate success, with artisans reporting heavy sales and appreciation by the local people.