Continuing the ritual since 29 years, the Surajkund Crafts Fair (mela) once again is all set to begin on February 1, 2016. Haryana Tourism Department organises this grand fair each year in Surajkund near Faridabad to promote handicraft and handloom of different states. It is also one of the largest gatherings of artists in the country where they get an opportunity to showcase their talent. The connoisseurs of art and crafts can admire and buy paintings, pottery, ivory work products and terracotta objects, among others.


Must Read: Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2018

A colourful celebration of Indian art and culture, Surajkund Mela occupies a major position in the international tourist calendar and is visited by thousands of Indian and international tourists during the fortnight. The beat of drums, the splash of colours, the earthen touch, the musical evenings and myriad exquisite handicraft items, best summarise the Surajkund Mela.


One of the main features of this colourful fair is that each year, one of the Indian states gets the honour of becoming the ‘Theme State’, where focus is primarily on promoting the art, culture and cuisine of that particular state. This year it’s Telangana that has been chosen as the Theme State of 30th Surajkund Mela. Like previous years, some spectacular handicrafts, handlooms, performing arts and cuisine are expected this year too.

Akin to Theme State, Surajkund Mela has the concept of Focus Nation, where a country is selected to display its art and rich cultural heritage. The 30th edition of the fair will have Japan and China as the Focus Nations. In addition to these two countries, cultural troupes, artists and chefs from Lebanon will showcase their talent at this mega fair.


Things to look forward to this year:

• Daily performances by renowned poets, musicians and singers at Chaupal every evening
• Cultural performances by the participating countries
• Kala Mani, Kala Nidhi and Kala Shri awards to the outstanding craftsperson
• Exporters and Buyers Meet will be organised with the help of the Export Promotional Council of India
• Souvenirs like mugs, key rings, magnets, coasters and decorative plates
• The multi-cuisine Food Court

Quick info:
Date: 1st Feb to 15th Feb
Timings: 9:30 am to 7:00 pm
Nearest metro station: Badarpur Metro Station
Theme State: Telangana
Focus Nations: China and Japan
Cultural programs list: http://haryanatourism.gov.in/showpage.aspx?contentid=5726
For more info visit: http://www.haryanatourism.gov.in/showpage.aspx?contentid=5153
Tickets: Entry tickets can be bought online from Bookmyshow.com. Besides, tickets would also be available at various prominent metro stations, including Rajiv Chowk, Central Secretariat, Saket, Sikanderpur, Karol Bagh, Noida City Centre, Botanical Garden, Kirti Nagar, Dwarka Sector 21, Vaishali, Laxmi Nagar, ITO and Mandi House, among others.