New Delhi

President Droupadi Murmu has inaugurated the famed Surajkund International Crafts Mela here on Friday, February 2.

Surajkund International Crafts Mela, the annual fair organised by Haryana Tourism in Faridabad to promote the tradition of Indian handloom and handicrafts.

The 37th edition of this mela has began today and  will wrap up by February 18. This crafts mela is known as India's most renowned events that celebrates art, culture, and heritage. 

यह मेला हमारी परंपरा का उत्सव भी है और नवीनता का भी। यह मेला हमारे शिल्पकारों को कला प्रेमियों से जोड़ने का प्रभावी मंच है। यह मेला कला प्रदर्शनी भी है और व्यापार केंद्र भी है। यह मेला अनेक देशों के हस्तशिल्पियों का महाकुंभ है।

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) February 2, 2024

Surajkund meaning the 'Lake of the Sun,' holds immense historical significance. The mela got its name from Surajkund lake that was an ancient reservoir constructed by King Suraj Pal of the Tomar dynasty in the 10th century.

The Haryana government introduced the Surajkund International Craft Mela, that takes place in the month of February every year, to boost tourism in Haryana state. The event draws both national and international footfall.

The Surajkund Mela promises an immersive experience featuring regional and international crafts, handlooms, customs, and culinary delights. Drawing over a million tourists annually, the Surajkund Mela stands as a testament to cultural exchange and celebration.

इस वर्ष के मेले के साझीदार राज्य गुजरात की कला परंपरा अत्यंत समृद्ध है। गुजरात के विभिन्न क्षेत्रों के शिल्पकार पटोला, रोगन चित्रकारी, टंगालिया शाल और कपड़े, बांधणी तथा संखेड़ा फर्नीचर जैसी अनेक कलाओं को जीवंत रखते हैं। मैंने कुछ कलाओं का ही नाम लिया है लेकिन सभी कलाएं अनमोल हैं…

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) February 2, 2024

This fair is a celebration of our tradition as well as innovation. This fair is an effective platform to connect our craftsmen with art lovers. This fair is both an art exhibition and a business center. This fair is a Mahakumbh of handicraftsmen from many countries.

This year, the eight North Eastern states, ‘Astalakshmi,’ are participating as the Cultural Partners. All eight states – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura – have come together under one umbrella to present a never-before-seen garland of art, craft, cuisines, and performing arts. Various day performers will enthrall the visitors, such as Bhangra from Punjab, Bihu from Assam, Barsana ki Holi, Lok Niritya from Haryana,