Suraj Kund mela is on

New Delhi: Surajkund Mela, the grand fair of art and crafts, has long been famous for its splendour across the country and across the world. But with the participation of member-countries of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), the fair is bound to have more significance for all visitors who arrive here from different parts of the country and world. For the first time many artistes from Nepal , Bhutan, Pakistan, Burma , Maldives and Bangladesh are displaying their crafts in the fair. Efforts are being made to get an international recognition for Suraj Kund fair. Attempts are also on to bring a theme nation in addition to a theme state with the help of the External Affairs Ministry.

The participation of SAARC countries has been facilitated by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (I.C.C.R). Organised by Surajkund Mela Authority with cooperation from Union Ministries of Tourism, Textiles and Haryana, the fair commences on February 1 and concludes on 15 each year. This year more than 350 artisans and weavers, short listed from all over the country are showcasing the exquisite and rich heritage of handlooms and handicrafts of the country. "The USP (Unique Selling Proposition) is that we are getting the craftsman from the country and SAARC nations. Secondly, a lot of attention has been given to the quality of craftsmen. About 60 to 70 per cent of these are national award winners. The quality of craft would be much superior to others. Children's entry is free in the fair so they can appreciate the craft," says Sanjay Kothari, Principal Secretary Tourism, Haryana and Vice Chairman Surajkund Mela Authority.

Maharashtra, the vibrant and dynamic State, is the theme State of this year's fair. Continuing the tradition of having a replica of a famous monument of the theme State as a commemorative State, the visitors can see a replica of the Trimurti (or, the trinity of God) from the world famous Elephanta caves which is a world famous heritage site. "Maharashtra is our theme State. It is a vibrant and prosperous State. More than 200 performers are displaying best of handlooms, cuisines and the culture. A fashion show will also be hosted on February 4 by world famous fashion designer Shaina N. C. of Mumbai," says Vijay Vardhan, Director, Tourism, Government of Haryana. Besides a "Natyashala" cum Open-air theatre comes alive with the rhythm and beat of folk dancers, musicians from all parts of the country every morning.

This year's cultural calendar includes Kathak recital by Prerna Shiri Mali, Bharat Natyam by Rama Vaidyanathan and Odisi Dance recital by Madhumante Sen Gupte. In addition to this, a cultural dance troupe from Sri Lanka would also perform. A Hasya Kavi Sammelan, cultural evenings hosted by Maharashtra, Haryana and Punjab are other highlights of the cultural calendar. "The objectives are two fold. One is to give the opportunity to the craftsmen of the country to give an opportunity to showcase their products and at the same time providing an opportunity for direct selling without intervention of the intermediaries. Second objective is to convert this place into a tourist destination. It is very close to Delhi.

"This Mela would provide an opportunity for the visitors coming from other parts of the country and outside to have an experience of the treasure that we have in our countryside by way of handlooms and different crafts. The tourists have an opportunity therefore to come and see and purchase and craftsmen have an opportunity to come and showcase both," said A. K. Mishra, Secretary Tourism, Government of India. To sustain the high growth rate of tourism and the Government of India has identified some very important destinations in the country to improve their infrastructure. This is the new scheme that they are preparing. 'Incredible India Publicity Campaign has also become very popular all over the world and it would further be intensified by the Government to attract more tourists from India and abroad. Special tours have been planned from Haryana Tourist Bureau at Janpath to the fair site. Buses have been made available from Inter State Bus Terminal, Sarai Kale Khan, Haryana Emporium Baba Kharag Singh Marg in Delhi. The majestic fair opens to visitors at 9:30 am every morning and closes at 7.00 p.m. Feb 7, 2006