Surajkund mela kicks off, showcasing global art, craftsmanship

The 38th edition of the Surajkund International Crafts Mela was inaugurated by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat today. The 16-day-long event, running from February 7 to February 23, will showcase the artistic talents of craftsmen and artisans from across India and various international participants.

Addressing the gathering, Shekhawat highlighted India’s growing prominence as a cultural tourism hub. “With India hosting major events like the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj and the Surajkund International Crafts Mela, the country has emerged as a prime destination for cultural and artistic tourism,” he said. The inauguration was attended by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini along with Heritage and Tourism Minister Dr Arvind Sharma.

Shekhawat described the Mela as a symbol of India's unity, culture and artistic legacy. “It is not just a marketplace for crafts but a crucial platform for artisans to showcase their ancient skills. The event aligns with the vision of ‘Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat’ (One India – Best India), as promoting art and culture has been a priority for the Modi government,” he said. He also emphasised the growing significance of the "Orange Economy," which recognises cultural and creative industries worldwide. “The Surajkund Mela will provide Indian craftsmen with new opportunities in both domestic and international markets, thanks to supportive policies at both levels,” he added.

Discussing Haryana’s potential in tourism, Shekhawat noted that its proximity to Delhi gives it an advantage in becoming a hub for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism. He urged authorities to leverage social media and digital marketing to expand the fair’s global reach. “India is on track to attain developed nation status in the next 25 years,” he asserted.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini emphasised the significance of the Crafts Mela in promoting India’s cultural ethos. “This fair is a testament to ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (The World is One Family), providing a global platform for Indian crafts and culture. The participation of a large number of artisans gives the fair a unique identity, similar to the Maha Kumbh. The presence of the theme states, Madhya Pradesh and Odisha, along with BIMSTEC nations — India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri Lanka — is a major highlight,” he said. Saini also noted that Haryana has been actively promoting handicrafts by organising similar events at the district level. “The Mela is a confluence of tradition, heritage and culture,” he added.

Spread across 45 acres, the Mela ground features over 1,250 huts and will host more than 2,500 artisans from India and abroad.