The Mahalaxmi Saras Sale and Exhibition 2026 is set to begin on March 24 and run until April 4 at the CIDCO Exhibition Centre in Vashi. Organized by the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department under the Maharashtra State Rural Livelihoods Mission (UMED), the event aims to promote products made by rural women and enhance their financial independence. With approximately 490 stalls, the exhibition will showcase the work of women’s self-help groups (SHGs), farmer producer organisations (FPOs), and entrepreneurs from Maharashtra and other states.

Empowering Rural Women Through Market Access

At a press conference held at CBD Belapur, Nilesh Sagar, Chief Executive Officer of UMED, emphasized the significance of the event. He stated that the initiative provides rural women with direct access to markets for their products. ‘Through UMED, lakhs of women have been organized into self-help groups and trained in financial literacy, savings, credit, and entrepreneurship. Platforms like Saras help them reach customers directly and improve their income,’ Sagar said.

The exhibition is part of a broader effort to create sustainable livelihoods for rural women through skill development, financial assistance, and support for small businesses and agriculture-based activities. Women participating in the event are also supported through bank linkages, revolving funds (RF), and community investment funds (CIF), which enable them to expand their enterprises.

Diverse Offerings and New Features

A major attraction at the exhibition will be a 70-stall food court offering traditional cuisines from across the state. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase a wide range of products, including handloom textiles, handicrafts, wooden artefacts, Warli and Banjara art, and jewellery directly from the producers.

This year, the organizers have introduced new features such as a ‘village area’ concept, anamorphic installations, AR photography zones, and infographic displays. The exhibition will be held in an air-conditioned hall and will include a dedicated play area for children, making it a family-friendly event.

Officials noted that this is the third consecutive year the Mahalaxmi Saras exhibition has been held in Navi Mumbai. Previous editions have received strong support from the local community, indicating a growing interest in promoting and purchasing products made by rural women.

Call to Support Rural Entrepreneurs

Sagar appealed to residents to visit the exhibition in large numbers and support rural women entrepreneurs by purchasing their products. ‘This is a unique opportunity to connect with the creators and understand the value of their work,’ he said.

The Mahalaxmi Saras exhibition has become a significant platform for rural women to showcase their products and connect with potential customers. With its diverse range of products and innovative features, the event is expected to attract a large audience and contribute to the economic empowerment of rural women in Maharashtra.

As the exhibition approaches, organizers are working to ensure a smooth and engaging experience for visitors. They have also emphasized the importance of community involvement in supporting local entrepreneurs and promoting sustainable livelihoods.

The Mahalaxmi Saras exhibition is not only a celebration of rural women’s craftsmanship but also a step forward in addressing economic disparities and promoting inclusive growth. By providing a direct market for their products, the event helps women achieve greater financial stability and independence.

With the support of the government and local communities, the Mahalaxmi Saras exhibition continues to play a crucial role in empowering rural women and supporting economic development in the region.