Surajkund Crafts Mela: 1987 & 1988

The year was 1987. The Mela ambience was simple. The architect who set the pattern of the Mela grounds was Shri Surendra Patel of Sharad Gandharva from Gujarat. The Mela grounds were intrinsically rural in appeal and so, the gate was designed as a plain mud structure. A hidden stairway led to the shehnai platform. The thatched roof tops and the presence of the shady trees set the stage for a delightful rural experience. During these two years, the Surajkund Mela played up no particular theme.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 1989

Theme State : Rajasthan

Commemorative Structure : Shekhawati Gate

The tradition of encapsulating the Theme State into the foreground began from this year onwards. Since then, a commemorative structure came to be designed every year. Colourful Shekhawati gate of Rajasthan was chosen as the master motif of the Mela. A haveli and a gate were built. Each structure was decorated with arched niches and brilliantly coloured wall murals, typical of the colourful of Shekhawati region. Even today, the haveli and the gate are a fascinating signature of Rajasthan. The gate stands 25-feet high and has been decorated by folk painters.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 1990

Theme State : West Bengal

Commemorative Structure : Vishnupur Gate

The Vishnupur gate reflects ancient structural traditions of West Bengal. Built with delicate terracotta patterns, the gate reflects architectural traditions that are over 1000 years old. Vishnupur was once the administrative seat of the Malla dynasty of Bengal. Though the Mallas were a warrior clan, they were also patrons of art and culture. Delicate relief patterns were used to embellish temples of which the existing Vishnupur temple is one. The famous Bankura house belongs to this genre. The Vishnupur Mela gate has a convex roof and elaborate terracotta decorations typical of the traditional Vishnupur temple structure.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 1991

Theme State : Kerala

Commemorative Structure : Kottayambalam Gate

Kerala formed the master motif of the Mela in 1991. It was symbolised by the Kottayambalam Gate. Designed by Laurie Baker, the gate is 31-feet in height. The structure is built of bricks and topped with tiles. The pyramidal roof is decorated with brass pinnacles. The structure reflects folk architecture.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 1992

Theme State : Chhattisgarh

Commemorative Structure : Danteshwari Devi Gate

The year 1992 celebrated Bastar of Madhya Pradesh as the Mela Theme. It was for the first time that a tribal motif formed the centre of attention, the deeply revered form of the mother goddess Danteshwari Devi, decorated the Mela gate, built in Dhokra metal craft tradition. The Devi is flanked with her retinue of local Gods and Goddesses. The gate is 33-feet in height.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 1993

Theme State : Orissa

Commemorative Structure : Mukteswara Gate

The gate of the Mela celebrates Orissa. The 'Gem of Orissan architecture' is the phrase associated with the Mukteswara temple. The Torana decorative motif of the original temple is reflected in the gate. Built by the craftspersons of Orissa, the gate displays fine stone carving traditions. The original Mukteswara temple along with its additional motifs of the ‘Raja Rani’ and the ‘Lingaraj’ temples marks the beginning of the ‘Peedha’ temple traditions in the region. The gate is 16-feet in height.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 1994

Theme State : Karnataka

Commemorative Structure : Hoysala Gate

The Hoysala Mela gate is a replica depicting the emblem of Hoysala dynasty at the top flanked by ‘Shardula’, the mythic animal. Two ‘Dwarpal Akas’ in typical Hoysala style guard the Hoysala Gate with mantpas intervening in between the lower portion of the pillar. The top of the gate is shaped in the Vijaynagar style. The Hoysala’s of Karnataka were one of the illustrious rulers, who commanded power in the southern part of the Karnataka. Hoysala architecture occupies a special place in the history of temple building in Karnataka. It was during this period that simplicity in temple art gave place to ornamentation in both architecture and sculpture.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 1995

Theme State : Punjab

Commemorative Structure : Ram Bagh Palace

An architecturally unique structure adorns the entrance gate of Ram Bagh Summer Palace, Amritsar, built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1819 A.D. that has been replicated at the Mela grounds.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 1996

Theme State : Himachal Pradesh

Commemorative Structure : Maheshwar Temple Gate

Serene Himachal finds a reflection in the Maheshwar temple gate. The state made its distinct mark in the Mela with this exquisitely done up gate.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 1997

Theme State : Gujarat

Commemorative Structure : Gujarat Gali ‘Pol of Gujarat’

Pol is the term derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Pratol’ which means gate or entry. Pol is a micro-neighbourhood consisting of a street with group of houses on both sides, found in old and traditional towns of Gujarat. A Pol always has a well-defined entrance complete with gates and designed to have a residence of the gatekeeper (Polia) incorporated at first floor level. The building height rises above single storey and subsequent floors cantilever out, thus keeping the street shaded through most of the day. Houses have narrow frontage with common walls on both the sides. The striking quality of a typical Pol is the exquisite workmanship, detailing in wood and stone carvings.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 1998

Theme State : Northern Eastern States (Seven Sisters)

Commemorative Structure : Assam - RANG GHAR

Rang Ghar or the sports pavilion of Assam is believed to be the only existing amphitheatre of Asia standing solitary on Rupahi Pathar near Sivasagar town. Rang Ghar was first conceived by Swargadeo Rudra Singha, the most powerful and illustrious king of the Ahom dynasty. The present two-storied oval-shaped brick building popularly known as ‘Rang Ghar’ was built by Swargadeo Pramatta Singha, the able son of Swargadeo Rudra Singha in 1746 A.D.

Commemorative Structure of Meghalaya: 'Iing Sad' (thatched palace)

'Iing Sad' (thatched palace), the royal abode of the Syiem Sad, Queen Mother or High Priestess of the state of Khyrim, about 15 km from Shillong. Built in the traditional style of a Khasi dwelling house, it has an elegant courtyard where the well-known ‘Nongkrem’ dance is performed.

UNAKOTI TIRTHA:

A replica of Unakoti is portrayed in the structure. The design takes its core inspiration from the ancient hilly place, Unakoti Tirtha, which means one less than a crore. It is a Saiva pilgrimage of the 8th century A.D., situated at a distance of 8 km from Kailashahar district. Famous for its bas-relief sculptures carved on the face of a hill.

Kangla Santhong- Manipur:

Kangla, the erstwhile fortified palace of Manipur, is an important landmark. It has a main archway or entrance in the shape of Lord Jaganatha’s vehicle known as ‘Kang’, topped by identical structures on each side of the archway in typical Manipuri style.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 1999

Theme State : Andhra Pradesh

Commemorative Structure : Charminar

The replica of the famous Charminar from Hyderabad captures the essence of Andhra Pradesh. The structure erected adds to the charm and aura and is masterfully crafted to look exactly like the real monument with intricate detailing.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2000

Theme State : Jammu and Kashmir

Commemorative Structure : Jammu Kashmir Gate- Khanqah-I-Moulla

The Khanqahs (Hospices) are an integral part of the Sufi order. They have served as the nerve centre for spreading the message of truth, compassion, and piety. The Khanqah-I-Moulla was the first of its kind of a unique centre. Its foundation was laid by the great Sufi saint and scholar Hazrat Mir Syed Ali Hamdani, popularly known as Shah-I-Hamdan. This replica of the Khanquah-I-Moulla pays a tribute to the craftsperson.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2001

Theme State: Goa

Commemorative Structure: Goa Gate

‘The Pergola’ is depicted in the ‘Goa Gate’. Pergolas, a sitting area or passageway, were built at vantage points along the coastline wherever the view was breathtaking. A ‘Picture Frame’ highlights the magnificence of the ocean. It also speaks of the openness of the people of Goa, their simplicity and ability to appreciate the infinite truths hidden in nature's lap.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2002

Theme State: Sikkim

Commemorative Structure: Sikkim Gate

A multi-coloured carved gate depicts Buddhist symbols like a dragon that is a mythical animal considered the protector of Dharma, Ridha Choekhor meaning deer and wheel of dharma represents Lord Buddha’s first sermon at Sarnath. A snow lion Padma Choegyed showing eight-fold path from teachings of Lord Buddha and Chi-Minda, who is pardoned by the Lord subsequent to repentance of his misdeeds.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2003

Theme State: Uttaranchal

Commemorative Structure: Uttaranchal Gate

A replica of the Badrinath Temple gate decorated with models of the Valley of Flowers and temple architecture from the Jageshwar temple complex. With nearly 16 different colours used in the 20-feet high gate and a Lord Shiva statue being a part of the decorations, it truly represents the aura of Uttaranchal.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2004

Theme State: Tamil Nadu

Commemorative Structure: Arjuna Penance Mamallapuram-Tamil Nadu

Inspired by the 7th century A.D. monument is located at Mamallapuram, near Chennai in Tamil Nadu. The huge black-shaped rock lets a story unfold. It depicts Arjuna’s petitioning Lord Shiva for the powerful weapon ‘Pasupa-Thasthra’. On one side, a majestic elephant and a fissure split the sculpture down the middle and on the other side, it is a masterpiece of Pallava’s sculpture and architecture. Arjuna’s penance constitutes a rich and engrossing tale of Hindu mythology.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2005

Theme State: Chhattisgarh

Commemorative Structure: Chhattisgarh Gate

The structure is a representation of the tribal life of the region. The spiritual leaning of its people takes due importance, and the tribal art adorns the entire structure. Symbols of religion and artistic outlook are evident and have been wonderfully executed to create a majestic view.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2006

Theme State: Maharashtra

Commemorative Structure: Trimurti from Elephanta Caves

The spirit of Maharashtra came alive with the artistically carved commemorative structure of the Trimurti from Elephanta caves. The details speak of the craftsmanship and bring to light the three dimensional essence of divine power.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2007

Theme State: Andhra Pradesh

Commemorative Structure: Charminar Gate

The replica of the famous Charminar from Hyderabad represents the history and the essence of Andhra Pradesh. The structure evokes the memory of the state with it being one of the most popular monuments.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2008

Theme State: West Bengal

Commemorative Structure: Vishnupur Gate

The Vishnupur gate constructed with delicate terracotta patterns is a wonderful piece of art. The gate reflects architectural traditions that are over 1000 years old with delicate relief patterns. The Vishnupur Mela gate has a convex roof and elaborate terracotta decorations typical of the traditional Vishnupur temple structure.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2009

Theme State: Madhya Pradesh

Commemorative Structure: Bhimbetka Gate

The ancient cave painting of Bhimbetka come to life at this magnificent structure. A glimpse of the beginning of civilization intricately woven into the details of the gate to welcome visitors.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2010

Theme State: Rajasthan

Commemorative Structure: Refurbished Shekhawati Gate

The gate speaks of the royal legacy of Rajasthan. Decorated with arched niches and brilliantly colored wall murals, typical of the colorful ways of the Shekhawati region. The gate stands 25-feet high and has been decorated by folk painters.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2011

Theme State: Andhra Pradesh

Commemorative Structure: Refurbished Charminar Gate

The grandeur of the four minarets is reflected in the regal structure exuding the era of the nawabs. The detailing on the structure gives it almost a real outlook. The structure stands tall in its majesty.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2012

Theme State: Assam

Commemorative Structure: Renovated Rang Ghar

The commemorative structure is a rebuilt structure of the previous edition of the mela. It is a two-storied royal sports-pavilion where Ahom kings and nobles were spectators at games like buffalo fights and other sports. The structure is an exact replica with highest detailing to bring out almost life-like image for the spectators.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2013

Theme State: Karnataka

Commemorative Structure : Gates of the Mysore Palace

Displaying the cultural and archaeological heritage of Karnataka in an aesthetic manner, replicas of the magnificent gates of the Mysore Palace, architectural styles of Belur, Hampi and the world famous monument of Jain Basadis and Bijapur were erected to captivate the visitors.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2014

Theme State: Goa

Commemorative Structure: Chhattisgarh Gate

The gate is built with the tribal spirit and art in mind. The simplicity and the spiritual point of view of the land of Chhattisgarh clearly reflected. With a deity as the central figure and motifs to adorn the arches the gate stands tall telling a story of the tribal land.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2015

Theme State: Chhattisgarh

Commemorative Structure : Chhattisgarh gate

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2016

Theme State: Telangana

Commemorative Structure: Warangal Gate

Warangal gate commemorates the history of Telangana. This structure enshrines the 12th-century architecture found in the state. Inspired by the ruins of Warangal Fort, the gate reflects the craftsmanship of the bygone era.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2017

Theme State: Jharkhand

Commemorative Structure: Tribal Gates of Jharkhand

The Tribal Gates of Jharkhand stand as a testament to the rich tribal heritage of the state. The gate is adorned with tribal motifs and symbols, celebrating the cultural diversity and artistic expression found in Jharkhand.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2018

Theme State: Uttar Pradesh

Vanya Dwar : Vanya Dwar eloquently represents the prominence of folk tradition and its inextricable relations with the Mother Nature. Uttar Pradesh, is home to thriving flora and fauna which make the forest and wild life as unit.

Ayodhya Dwar : Ayodhya Dwar commemorates the legend of Bhagwan Rama and historical significance of Ayodhya : Bhagwan Rama, a central figure of the ancient Hindu epic Ramayana, has been reversed since times immemorial as Maryada Purushottam-inspiring the social-cultural life of Indians.

Awad Dwar : Inspired by the theme of Lucknow and cultural/historical legacy of the region, Awadh Dwar, brings to the fore, an essence of modern-day Lucknow's much-celebrated Sham-e-Awadh and Tehzeeb; the region of Awadh has been known as the cultural soul of India..

Sakya Muni : Buddha Dwar at Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2018 celebrates the life evidences of lord Buddh. It encapsulates events in the life of the Lord Buddha, including his birth, enlightenment, and passage into nirvana.

Bundelkhand Dwar : Bundlekhand Dwar showcases the indomitable valour and courage of Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi who protested against the annexation of her kingdom and fought valiantly till her last breath like a true patriot in the First War of Independence 1857 against the British.

Surajkund Crafts Mela: 2019