Surajkund Mela kicks off in Haryana

The famous Surajkund Mela which showcases variety of ethnically diverse handicrafts, handloom products and cuisines and has foreign nations participating, kick started in Haryana on Sunday.

The 15-day fair is an annual event which reflects and promotes the rich and diverse cultural and artistic heritage of India.

The 29th edition of the fair will see 18 countries taking part in it and has central state of Chhattisgarh as the theme state.

"When countries from all across the world come together and take part in it, it increases love and sense of brotherhood. It is an honour that Chhattisgarh state is the theme state this time," said Chief Minister of Haryana, Manohar Lal Khattar.

Khattar inaugurated the fair along with Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Raman Singh, in Faridabad.

"Chhattisgarh was once known as a backward state where people would starve to death. Today, after 15 years since it came into being, it is moving towards the direction of progress and in the next 10 years, it would be among the top three states in India. Such is the kind of identity it is creating," said Singh.

For the less-known and unknown artisans, be they from India or abroad, the Surajkund Mela provides an ideal platform to showcase their creative talents with lucrative commercial prospects.

Visitors also get to see traditional cultural events, dance and folk music shows organised at the venue.

This year Lebanon is the partner nation at the fair.