Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, to inaugurate the 38th Edition of Surajkund Mela on February 7

Faridabad, February 6– The 38th edition of Surajkund International Crafts Fair, set to be held from February 7 to 23 at Surajkund, would serve as a powerful medium to showcase Haryana’s cultural traditions on a global platform.

648 participants from 42 countries would be participating at the event. Odisha and Madhya Pradesh have been designated as the theme states. Visitors will get a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of these states along with various other regions of India.

Haryana Tourism Corporation’s Principal Secretary and Vice-Chairperson of the Surajkund Mela Authority, Ms. Kala Ramachandran, shared these details at a press conference at the Chaupal in the Surajkund Mela complex on Thursday.

Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, will inaugurate the Mela on February 7 at 10 AM. The event will be graced by the Chief Minister of Haryana, Shri Nayab Singh, and State Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Sharma.

Surajkund Crafts Fair – The Largest in the World
Ms. Ramachandran highlighted that the Surajkund International Crafts Fair has grown to become the world’s largest crafts fair, preserving and promoting India’s rich artistic traditions. More than just an exhibition, the fair is a celebration of craftsmanship, heritage, and global unity.

All necessary arrangements have been made to ensure a seamless experience for visitors. The venue will be under continuous surveillance through CCTV cameras for security purposes.

Since its inception in 1987, the fair has played a crucial role in providing artisans with direct market access, thereby strengthening their livelihood. It also significantly contributes to the “Vocal for Local” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiatives of the Government of India. The fair acts as a launchpad for small and medium-scale entrepreneurs, especially women entrepreneurs, helping them expand their businesses and promoting women’s empowerment.

Mrinalini Darswal, Principal Resident Commissioner from Odisha, and Devendra Rai from Madhya Pradesh, shared insights about the participation of their respective states and their rich cultural and craft heritage. They also extended their gratitude to the Haryana government and tourism department for the grand preparations.

Unprecedented International Participation – 648 Participants from 42 Countries
Ms. Ramachandran further revealed that the international participation in this year’s fair will be unprecedented, with 648 participants from 42 countries. Some of the participating nations include Egypt, Ethiopia, Syria, Afghanistan, Belarus, Myanmar, and members of the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation).

Live Demonstration of Traditional Craftsmanship
One of the major attractions of this year’s fair will be the live demonstration of traditional crafts by artisans. Visitors will get a chance to witness the artisans’ hard work and craftsmanship up close. Additionally, guests will have the opportunity to engage in artistic conversations with experts in cinema, photography, theater, painting, and sculpture, gaining deeper insights into their creative processes.

Performances by Renowned Artists to Entertain Visitors
Visitors will be treated to a mesmerizing blend of music and dance, featuring performances by some of India’s most renowned artists. The cultural programs will include:

Padma Shri Awardee Mahavir Guddu
Dr. Satinder Sartaj
Mame Khan, Papon, and various bands
Saurav Atri’s soul-stirring music performances
Kavi Sammelan featuring Dr. Irshad Kamal
Classical dance performances by Priya Venkataraman and Devika Devendra S. Mangala Mukhi
Renowned humorists Surendra Sharma and Gaurav Gupta will enthrall the audience with their comic acts.
The theme states, Odisha and Madhya Pradesh, will be the main cultural highlights this year. A grand fashion show by NIFT Mohali will also be a key attraction.

Additionally, folk artists such as Banchari, Been Sapera, Nagada Party, Magicians, Bamboo Walkers, Bahurupiya, Bioscope, and Puppet Shows will captivate visitors. The North-Eastern Handicrafts and Handloom Development Corporation will be the cultural partner, showcasing the rich crafts, textiles, and culinary traditions of the North-Eastern states.

A Treat for Food Lovers – Regional Delicacies on Offer
The fair will offer visitors a unique experience of tasting regional delicacies from across India, including dishes from Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, and other states. Special cuisines from the theme states, Odisha and Madhya Pradesh, will also be available.

Delhi Metro – Official Partner for Ticketing and Parking
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has been designated as the official partner for ticketing and parking. Visitors can book tickets online through the DMRC website and the Surajkund Mela portal. Offline tickets will also be available at Delhi Metro stations.

The event was attended by
DC Vikram Singh
Commissioner of Police Satendra Kumar Gupta
DCP Abhishek Jorwal
ADG Bharti Sharma from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
Tourism MD Sunil Kumar
General Manager of Haryana Tourism, Ashutosh Rajan
Fair Manager, Tourism U.S. Bharadwaj
AGM Harvinder Yadav and other officials.