Bengaluru: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday inaugurated Kalaloka, a dedicated store at Kempegowda International Airport’s Terminal 2, aimed at promoting and selling Karnataka’s Geographical Indication (GI)-certified products to both domestic and international travellers. The store has been established by the Department of Industries and Commerce as part of the state government’s efforts to bring local craftsmanship and heritage to a global audience.
Inaugurating the outlet, Siddaramaiah painted a symbolic artwork and rang a ceremonial bell to mark the opening. “This is a proud moment for Karnataka on the industrial map of India. The Kempegowda International Airport ranks third in the country in terms of passenger traffic, with tens of thousands of travellers arriving every day,” the Chief Minister said in his address. He added, “The Kalaloka store has been established to give visitors an immediate glimpse of Karnataka’s pride and cultural essence as soon as they arrive. Through this initiative, our state’s distinguished products will receive global recognition, branding, and market reach.”
Karnataka’s cultural showcase at the airport
The Kalaloka initiative has been supported by several state-run enterprises, including Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL), Karnataka Handloom Development Corporation, Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation (KSIC), Coffee Board, and LIDKAR. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Industries Minister M.B. Patil, and several senior officials attended the inaugural event.
Minister M.B. Patil said the store features some of Karnataka’s most iconic traditional and GI-tagged products such as Mysore sandal soap, sandalwood oil, incense sticks, Mysore silk, Channapatna toys, Ilkal saris, LIDKAR leather goods, Lambani garments, Bidriware, coffee, handloom items, and Mysore-style paintings. “A total of 45 GI-certified products from Karnataka will be showcased and sold. The objective is to introduce the state’s traditional and geographically distinctive products to global audiences,” Patil said.
Designed to reflect Karnataka’s heritage
According to the official statement, airport authorities have allotted 132 square metres in the domestic bay of Terminal 2 for the Kalaloka store. A second outlet will soon open in the international departure area, covering around 140 square metres. The design of the store has been inspired by Karnataka’s rich art, culture, and architectural heritage, aiming to offer travellers a visually immersive experience along with premium souvenirs.
Global platform for Karnataka artisans
Officials said the initiative is expected to significantly boost visibility and sales for artisans, self-help groups, and small-scale manufacturers across Karnataka who produce GI-certified items. By setting up Kalaloka within the airport, the government intends to create a platform for rural artisans to connect directly with global consumers without intermediaries.
“This project will not only help artisans financially but will also ensure that Karnataka’s traditional skills and crafts are preserved for future generations,” an official statement noted. The government is also exploring similar outlets in other major airports and tourist destinations within and outside the state.
Conclusion
The launch of Kalaloka marks a key step in Karnataka’s mission to promote its handcrafted heritage and GI-certified products at an international level. With a curated range of 45 unique items reflecting the state’s cultural diversity, the initiative aims to make Karnataka’s traditional products a global brand. A second Kalaloka store for international passengers will open soon at the same terminal, expanding the state’s outreach to global travellers.
