Odisha, MP to share theme spotlight at Surajkund Fair

The 38th edition of the Surajkund International Crafts Fair, scheduled from February 7 to 23 at Surajkund, Faridabad, will feature Odisha and Madhya Pradesh as its theme states. For the first time, two states will jointly represent the theme of this cultural event.

A spokesperson for Haryana Tourism announced this development today, emphasising that the fair continues to gain recognition for showcasing India's cultural and historical heritage at an international level. To ensure seamless arrangements, a preparatory meeting involving officials from the Tourism Department and district administration was held on Tuesday.

Kala Ramchandran, Principal Secretary, Haryana Tourism, chaired the meeting and urged officials to strive for excellence. “The authorities concerned should leave no stone unturned in making the fair a resounding success. This event is a platform to highlight the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region and the country on an international scale, and it has already achieved unparalleled heights,” she stated.

With participation growing nationally and internationally, Ramchandran emphasised the need to enhance facilities for visitors and participants.

This year, countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand — members of the BIMSTEC group — will serve as cultural partners for the fair, alongside the North East Handloom and Handicraft Association. Organisers revealed that a fully digitalised ticketing and information system, accessible via the official website surajkundmela.co.in, will streamline the visitor experience. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has been appointed as the ticketing partner for the event.

Senior officials also disclosed that the mela ground, spread over 45 acres, will house approximately 1,200 stalls for artisans and craftspersons, with an estimated 3,500 participants in total. In addition to art, craft and culinary offerings, several commercial organisations are expected to set up stalls during the 17-day event.

“The meeting reviewed the progress of preparations,” an official said, adding that departments, including Tourism, Police, Civic Administration, and others, have been directed to complete their tasks within stipulated timelines.

Prominent attendees at the meeting included Divisional Commissioner Sanjay Joon, Managing Director of Haryana Tourism Corporation Sunil Kumar, DCP Headquarters Abhishek Jorwal, Nodal Officer of Surajkund Fair Authority and ADC Sahil Gupta, SDM Amit Maan, CTM Ankit Kumar, and other officials from Haryana Tourism.

This year’s fair promises to be a blend of tradition, culture and innovation, with participants and visitors from across India and the globe.