President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the 37th Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2024 in Faridabad, Haryana on Friday. Addressing the gathering, President Murmu said art and craft persons are the creative ambassadors of humanity. She lauded the artists and craft persons for preserving the rich art legacy of India. She further added that Art and craft cut across borders and build bridges of understanding. Talking about the significance of the Surajkund Mela, the President said that it is a celebration of tradition as well as innovation. President Murmu termed the fair as a Mahakumbh of hand-craftsmen from several countries.
The President informed that Tanzania’s participation as the partner country at the Surajkund Mela highlights India’s engagement with the African Union. Greeting the people of Tanzania present at the fair, President Murmu expressed confidence that people at the Mela will get a chance to experience the vibrant and colorful Tanzanian arts and crafts, including wood carving, pottery, and weaving. She said that the presence of participants from Tanzania and other countries makes this Mela truly international.
The President also appreciated the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat that will be on display during the Mela. She said that craftsmen from different regions of Gujarat have kept alive many arts including Patola, Rogan painting, Tangalia shawls and clothes, Bandhani and Sankheda furniture. Lauding the hardwork and creative vigour of painters, craftsmen and weavers, President Murmu hailed their tapestry of work. President Droupadi Murmu said that the fair is both an art exhibition and a business center.
The fair will showcase the richness and diversity of the handicrafts, handlooms, and the cultural heritage of India. Around 50 countries will participate in the Mela. These countries include Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, Myanmar, Nepal, Russia, and Sri Lanka, among others. It will remain open to the public till the 18th of February.
Tanzania will participate as the Partner Nation in the craft mela. Gujarat is the theme state, which is showcasing its unique culture and rich heritage through various art forms and handicrafts from the region. The visitors can visit the fair from 10.00 AM to 8:00 PM. As a corporate social responsibility initiative, the Surajkund Mela Authority will provide a 50 percent rebate on entry tickets to differently-abled persons, senior citizens, and serving defense personnel and ex-servicemen.
