Hyderabad, January 1: The vibrant 83rd edition of the All India Industrial Exhibition, affectionately known as Numaish, commenced with a festive celebration marking the New Year.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy inaugurated the annual fair, slated to run for an extensive 45 days. Expressing admiration for the city’s iconic landmarks, including Charminar and Tank Bund, he emphasized the significance of Numaish, attracting traders from Kashmir to Kanyakumari each year.
Commending the All India Industrial Exhibition Society for its consistent organization of the event, the Chief Minister pledged unwavering government support. He also affirmed backing for the educational institutions operated by the Society, endorsing the proposal to upgrade Kamla Nehru Polytechnic to an engineering college.
In attendance were Information Technology and Industry Minister D. Sridhar Babu, the honorary President of the Exhibition Society, and Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar. Minister Sridhar Babu highlighted that 30,000 students are currently enrolled in educational institutions managed by the Society.
Spread across the expansive Numaish Maidan in Nampally, at the heart of the city, the exhibition boasts over 2,000 stalls. Opening its doors to visitors daily from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., the entry ticket price remains unchanged at Rs 40, ensuring accessibility for all.
Originating in 1938, Numaish is recognized as one of the world’s oldest and largest trade fairs. Initially conceived by graduates from Osmania University as a means to promote locally-produced goods, it has evolved into a major annual event. The inaugural ‘numaish’ was inaugurated by the seventh Nizam of Hyderabad State, Mir Osman Ali Khan, who spurred its transformation into an annual event with proceeds dedicated to education.
Beginning with a modest 50 stalls and a capital of Rs.2.50, Numaish has grown into a significant industrial exhibition, with only two interruptions in its history—in 1947 and 1948 due to post-Independence turmoil, and in 2020 amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Featuring traders from across the country, the exhibition offers an array of goods, including handicrafts, toys, imitation jewelry, ladies apparel, crockery, and electronic items. Complementing the shopping experience are amusement spaces, rides, and popular food outlets serving delectable kebabs, biryani, haleem, and more. Drawing in 40,000-50,000 daily visitors, Numaish stands as a testament to India’s diverse trade and cultural heritage.
