A splash of colours, rhythm of drum beats and joy de-vivre merge at Surajkund in Faridabad, Haryana during the first fortnight of each February. The curtains go up on the acclaimed annual Surajkund International Crafts Mela from 1st February onwards, a celebration of Indian folk traditions and cultural heritage.
Occupying a place of pride on the international tourist calendar, more than a million visitors throng the Mela during the fortnight including thousands of foreign tourists. The Surajkund Mela is unique as it showcases the richness and diversity of the handicrafts, handlooms and cultural fabric of India, & is the largest crafts fair in the world.
The Mela is organized by the Surajkund Mela Authority & Haryana Tourism in collaboration with Union Ministries of Tourism, Textiles, Culture and External Affairs. For the 37th Surajkund International Crafts Mela-2022, the state of Gujarat has been chosen to be the Theme State. At least 20 countries & all the states of India will be participating in the Mela.
A large number of renowned national and international folk artistes and cultural groups present day performances at both the Chaupals, the open-air theatres, located in the Mela premises. Also enthralling cultural evening programmes are held at the main Chaupal during each of the Mela evening. The Mela is indeed a custodian of the heritage crafts involving use of traditional skills that are fading away due to cheap machine made imitations, and a special section is earmarked for showcasing of these heritage crafts.
The multi-cuisine Food Court provides ethnic cuisines from all over the world, which are immensely popular with visitors. There are designated places for amusement, adventure sports and joy rides to make it a must visit event for the young.
In 2013, the fair was upgraded to an international level and in 2015, a record number of 20 countries participated in the Mela and Lebanon was the Partner Nation and Chhattisgarh, the Theme State.
The Mela was conceived primarily to promote the pool of skilled artisans, who used indigenous technology, but
were suffering due to the cheaper machine-made imitations. This is an earnest effort by Surajkund Mela
Authority & Haryana Tourism to provide a platform for craftspersons and wavers to directly market their wares by
eliminating the middlemen.
To preserve the languishing arts & crafts of India, Surajkund Crafts Mela was hosted for the first time in
1987. The Mela ground is spread over 40 acres and houses about 1010 work huts that host craftspersons and
weavers.
Surajkund International Crafts Mela offers its visitors a lifetime experience as it unfolds a wonderful range
of textiles, paintings, wood stock, ivory work, pottery, terracotta, stonework, lac querware, cane and grass
products.
The 37th Edition of the Surajkund International Crafts Mela is poised to write history as it will witness an unprecedented participation by foreign countries in a large number.
Tanzania, a land known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, is also a canvas for vibrant artistic expression and rich cultural heritage. From the intricate beadwork of the Maasai to the contemporary art scenes in urban centers, Tanzania’s local art and crafts scene is a testament to the country’s creativity and traditions. Tanzanian artists will take you to a journey through the captivating world of Tanzanian artistry, exploring traditional crafts, contemporary works, the talented local artisans behind them.
Traditional Crafts and Heritage
At the heart of Tanzania’s art scene lies a deep connection to cultural heritage. Traditional crafts, passed down through generations, showcase the artistry of various ethnic groups. The Maasai, renowned for their intricate beadwork, create stunning jewelry, clothing, and decorative pieces that reflect their cultural identity and history. The Makonde people are celebrated for their masterful wood carvings, while the Chaga people excel in crafting baskets, mats, and utensils from local materials.
Gujarat has history and it has plenty of stories. It is home to Dholavira, a city of the Indus Valley civilization, dating to 3rd Century BC. As well as contemporary creations, epitomised by the tallest statu in the world .
Gujarat is an unending array of places to visit and lose oneself in. The astounding Rani in Vav the goosebump-inducing Somnath temple, the majestic wilderness of the Gir National Park, the beautiful starkness of the Rann of Kutch-to name just a few.
Where centuries-old traditions and nimble craftsmanship unravel.
Gujarat has a spellbinding legacy,bringing together varied strands of culture and tradition. It is home to wide range of textiles that are intricately linked to its past. Artistry characterises Gujarat and it manifests itself in many exquisite handicrafts that best showcase Gujarat's traditions.
Gujarat has a rich legacy of weaving and handicrafts, encompassing disciplines like-embroidery, tie-dye, block printing, bead work, metalworking, woodcarving, lacquer work, pottery, marquetry, quilting, stone carving etc.. Come discover every thread weave its magic at Surajkund Mela
Major highlights of the 38th Surajkund International Crafts Mela-2023
Republic of Tanzania will participate as the ‘Partner nation’ and showcase its crafts, culture, art forms and cuisines at the mela