Surajkund Mela to showcase India’s diverse art, crafts, music

The 38th edition of the Surajkund International Handicraft Mela, a unique confluence of colour, art, crafts, music and cultural heritage, is set to begin on Friday. The event will be inaugurated by Union Minister of Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini presiding over the ceremony.

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Arvind Sharma, Haryana’s Minister of Tourism and Cooperation, addressed a press conference at Haryana Bhavan in New Delhi, sharing that the internationally renowned Surajkund Handicraft Mela will feature Odisha and Madhya Pradesh as the theme states this year.

Sharma emphasised that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to strengthen national unity, culture, and art aligns with the Surajkund Mela, which serves as a vibrant showcase of India’s diversity. He noted that the mela provides a platform for international artisans and artists to display their talents and works.

Dr Sharma highlighted that the Surajkund Mela is unique for celebrating India’s rich handicraft, handloom, and cultural diversity.

The event, which will run from February 7 to 23, will also feature traditional folk dances, classical and semi-classical performances, cultural showcases, and musical programmes by artistes from various Indian states and participating foreign countries.

In a bid to provide convenience for tourists, Sharma announced that Haryana Tourism has signed an MoU with Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for ticket sales and parking services. Tickets for the event will be available at selected Metro stations, and special ticket counters will be set up at the mela gates. Additionally, e-rickshaws will be available for senior citizens and differently-abled visitors.

Sharma also revealed that shuttle bus services will be available from key Metro stations such as Gurugram Ballabgarh, ISBT Kashmiri Gate, Connaught Place and Tughlakabad, making it easier for people to reach the mela.

The Surajkund Mela will also feature food stalls from 15 states, showcasing regional cuisines. Several private brands will also be providing food services.

Cultural performances will take place on four stages throughout the event, including two new stages —Mahastage and Natya Shala — along with the traditional Chaupal-1 and Chaupal-2. Over 1,000 artistes will perform at the mela, with a focus on traditional folk, classical, and modern performances. There will be QR codes for easy access to information about artisans and stalls, highlighting the mela’s digitisation efforts.

The event will also host rural sports, including traditional games like wrestling (Dangal), kabaddi, and kho-kho, offering a unique glimpse into India’s rural sporting heritage.