Surajkund Mela goes international; to kickstart from tomorrow

"Taking a huge leap from last year, the festival this year has been upgraded as 'international', and 21 countries from Africa, Eurasia and SAARC nations would participate," said Vijai Vardhan, Haryana's Principal Secretary (Tourism) and Vice Chairman of the Mela.

President Pranab Mukherjee will inaugurate the annual cultural and handicrafts extravaganza, with Karnataka as its theme state, on February 2.

The Mela would showcase the archaeological heritage of Karnataka, the traditional dance of Yakshagana with display of finest handicrafts and handlooms from across the country and abroad.

"The concept behind the festival is to showcase India's rich cultural and archaeological heritage. The aim of the festival is to portray a microcosm of entire India," said Parvez Dewan, Secretary Tourism, Government of India.

With the increasing popularity and vibrance of the festival with each passing year, the area of the festival this year has been increased by 2.5 acres to 40 acres.

With Karnataka as theme state, 150 artisans from the state would display their crafts and textiles. A total number of 770 artisans would participate in the festival.

"This is the first year when a state is having four gates showcasing its monumental diversity and heritage. The state will also showcase its artistic richness with Bidriware works, bronze items from Nagamangala to Mysore paintings among other items," said Anand Mohan Sharma, Haryana's DG Tourism. MORE