New Delhi:
Athletes may swear by the performance enhancing speedo-style tight apparel on the field, but off the track India wants to dress them up in breezy Khadi apparel during the Commonwealth Games later this year.
The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) will set up a stall at the Games Village to sell handicrafts and khadi apparel, made of homespun cotton.
While the Games are scheduled to be held from October 3-14, the Khadi outlet will operate between September 15 and October 18, according to Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) Director, Marketing, Samir Kumar.
When asked whether KVIC has appointed any brand ambassador for its promotional sales before the foreign audience, KVIC chairperson Kumud Joshi said it would be the Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi.
"Who is a better ambassador of Khadi than Mahatma Gandhi?" Books on Gandhi would also be on display at the KVIC outlets.
The first Khadi Production Centre was established at Katiawad, Gujarat, Gandhi's state of birth.
Gandhi used to refer to Khadi as "The lever of freedom," Joshi said, adding that she expects the Games to drive up Khadi sales by at least 25 per cent.
Kumar said a range of traditional items will be lined up for sale, especially targeting the foreign visitors. Launching of special products are being considered for the event.
Specially designed cotton bags will be available at low prices with the Commonwealth Games mascot logo, Shera, on them.
A demonstration of work by artisans, including pottery and pulp based products will also be organised.