27th Surajkund International Crafts Mela culminates

15 February, 2013

The 27th annual Surajkund Crafts mela ended today, with the Governor of Haryana Jagannath Pahadia presiding over the closing-cum-prize distribution ceremony. The drumbeats and foot-tapping music at the mela gave all present the esteemed dignitaries a rousing welcome with much pomp and show from the participating cultural troupes of various countries and the states of India.

The governor took keen interest in the spectacular display of matchless handicrafts and handlooms. He spent valuable moments interacting with the craftspersons including that of Partner Continent Africa and SAARC countries that participated in the Mela. He showed keen interest in crafts and was delighted with the pastoral imagery of the Mela.

Some scintillating cultural performances were also staged to entertain the Chief Guest, dignitaries and audiences at the closing ceremony function. Arvind Jadhav, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Karnataka also expressed that this endeavour will give Indian arts and crafts a global recognition.

Also, the governor commended the efforts of Surajkund Crafts Mela Authority for extending a platform to craftspersons from participating countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Thailand besides Eurasian and African countries for also displaying their cultural amalgamation.

A host of new initiatives were taken to make the Mela more exciting and people-friendly. This year, the Karnataka Day and Sri Lanka Day were celebrated on 9th February and 12th February respectively with much enthusiasm. The facilities like e-ticketing was introduced for the first time, also battery-operated carts and 50 percent discount to differently-abled, defence personnel and senior citizens along with free entry for freedom fighters and war widows were extended during this edition.

Surajkund International Crafts Mela has also embodied the amalgamation of cultures of various nations. The Mela has gone international this year with the participation of 20 countries and has been further enriched by participating of various foreign cultural troupes.