Surajkund mela ends, draws 1,500 foreign craftspersons

Tribune News Service

Faridabad, February 18

The 17-day 37th Surajkund International Crafts Mela came to a close on Sunday evening. Addressing the gathering, State Governor Bandaru Dattatreya said, “It is a matter of great joy for all lovers of art and culture that since its beginning in 1987, the popularity of the fair has grown very rapidly and it has created its own identity in the hearts and minds of the people.”

Though the fair had humble beginnings, it has emerged as a world-renowned crafts fair, which makes the country shine in the arena of promotion of art and craft globally, he added. “I express my heartfelt gratitude to the craftsmen, artisans and visitors to be a part of this grand event, which has also earned a special place in the hearts of art lovers,” he said, adding that the organisers left no stone unturned in enabling the craftsmen, artisans and weavers to showcase their talent and connect with the people.

The fair had witnessed an increase in the number of visitors and 1,500 craftspersons and artisans from as many as 50 foreign countries participated this time, reflecting the success of the Indian concept of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’.

The participation of the United Republic of Tanzania as a partner nation highlights India’s engagement with the African Union, the Governor further said. India’s ties with the African nations had been growing immensely, he added.

He also praised the artisans from theme state Gujarat, stating that it was famous for its cultural diversity and grandeur. He said the mela —a unique celebration of arts, crafts, music and culture — was poised to attain greater heights in the coming years and would serve as a custodian of endangered arts and crafts worldwide. Several artisans and craftspersons were given prizes for their contribution during the concluding ceremony.

An Odisha-based craftsman was awarded the Kala Ratna award, while seven artisans from Rajasthan, Karnataka, Gujarat, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh were awarded the Kala Mani award. Seven craftspersons were given the Kala Nidhi and Kalashri awards, while Chanda Devi from Rajasthan received the Paramparagat award.

In the foreign category, A Masaki of Tanzania, K Haddaoui of Algeria and Odeki G of Ghana were given prizes for their artworks.

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