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Surajkund Mela Goes Global: 50+ Nations Join Haryana's Premier Craft Festival

The 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela has opened in Faridabad, Haryana, with Egypt as this year's partner nation. Haryana Minister Arvind Kumar Sharma emphasized its evolution from a local fair to a global "craft festival," with participation from over 50 countries surpassing last year's 44. The event anticipates a footfall exceeding 15-16 lakh visitors, supported by robust security including over 2000 police personnel. It transforms the area into a vibrant hub showcasing traditional arts, crafts, and cuisine from India and across the world.

Key Points: Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2024 Begins with Egypt as Partner

  • 39th edition runs Jan 31-Feb 15
  • Egypt is the partner nation
  • Over 50 countries participating
  • Expected footfall over 15 lakh visitors
2 min read

From local to global: Haryana Minister talks about Surajkund mela's expanding reach

The 39th Surajkund Mela in Faridabad runs until Feb 15, featuring over 50 countries and expecting over 15 lakh visitors. Egypt is the partner nation.

"This event has truly gone from local to global. - Haryana Minister Arvind Kumar Sharma"

Faridabad, Jan 31

The 39th edition of the Surajkund International Crafts Mela commenced today, January 31, in Faridabad, Haryana, attracting a wave of excitement and enthusiasm from across the globe. The mela, which will run until February 15, has been transformed into a grand celebration of crafts, arts, and cultural diversity, with Egypt as the partner nation this year.

Speaking to IANS at the inauguration, Haryana Minister Arvind Kumar Sharma highlighted the significance of the event, describing it as more than just a mela, but a "craft festival" that draws immense interest from people even before its official start. "People begin inquiring months in advance about the dates and the nature of the event. The enthusiasm is palpable, and it continues to grow every year," Sharma stated.

Last year, the mela saw participation from 44 countries, but this year, the event has surpassed expectations with over 50 countries taking part. Nearly 700 participants have already arrived, and the footfall is anticipated to exceed the 15 to 16 lakh mark witnessed in previous editions. Sharma added that the increasing number of visitors is a testament to the growing popularity and trust people place in the mela. "The beauty of the event and the trust it commands are growing day by day," he remarked.

Ensuring safety, over 2,000 police personnel have been deployed for security, with additional forces expected on weekends. The mela will be closely monitored through CCTV coverage, further enhancing its security. "This event has truly gone from local to global," said Sharma confidently.

The Surajkund Mela is known for transforming the usually quiet Surajkund Road into a vibrant cultural hub. Craftspeople, performers, and food vendors from across India and abroad come together to showcase their traditional art, crafts, and culinary skills, making it one of the most awaited events in the cultural calendar.

With colourful lighting, renovated grounds, and cultural displays, this year's mela promises to be an unforgettable experience.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Over 50 countries! That's incredible growth. It's heartening to see our traditional crafts getting a global platform. I hope the artisans are getting fair prices and recognition for their amazing work. That's the real success metric.
A
Aman W
The security arrangements with 2000+ police and CCTV are very reassuring. With such huge crowds expected, safety is paramount. Kudos to the administration for planning this. Hope the traffic management is also handled well on Surajkund Road.
S
Sarah B
As someone who visited last year from the US, it was an absolutely mesmerizing experience. The colors, the crafts, the food! It's like a living museum. Planning my trip again this year. Well done to the organizers for scaling it up so well.
V
Vikram M
While the expansion is impressive, I hope the core essence isn't lost. Sometimes when things go too 'global', the local artisans and the authentic, traditional feel can get sidelined by commercial stalls. Hope the focus remains on crafts and culture.
K
Kavya N
My family has been going for the last 10 years! It's a wonderful annual tradition. The kids love it, and we get to buy unique handcrafted items directly from the makers. Seeing it grow this big fills me with so much joy. Jai Haryana!

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