The international Surajkund Mela begins from 19 March and will continue till 4th April in Faridabad, Haryana. After a gap of two years, the fair is being organized, which showcases the cultural fabric of India, which began on Saturday. While addressing the press conference, the Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar inaugurated the 35th edition of the fair at Danteshwari gate in Faridabad, and around 20 countries are expected to participate, according to Haryana Tourism.
According to the officials, the fair will continue until 4th April from 12 PM to 9:30 PM as thousands of visitors want to attend this fair in the evening to escape the soaring mercury levels. The theme state of International Surajkund Mela 2022 in Jammu & Kashmir, whose culture and traditions are primarily exhibited and Uzbekistan is the partner country.
While addressing the gathering at the inauguration, it is said that it is a matter of pride for every artist to participate in the Surajkund festival, which could not be held due to COVID-19 last year. An artist does not only give his handicraft a color and shape but also portrays emotions of the human mind, said Manohar Lal Khattar.
The artists will give indigenous performances; there will be around 1100 stalls from you get items, exquisite crafts, and cuisine from different states. Also, the official added 300 CCTV cameras to improve overall security, and elaborate parking arrangements are in place.
The Haryana government has started an e-ticket system for the convenience of visitors as around 25 lakh people are expected to visit this year, said by Chief Minister. There is a 50% rebate on entry tickets for senior citizens, differently-abled persons, and serving defense personnel & ex-servicemen. For the last 35 years, this festival provides the best platform for craftsmen & handloom artisans to showcase their skills that not only strengthen the unity & integrity of the country but also boost the cultural links between them.
During the fair, the authorities have barred the entry of heavy vehicles to ensure smooth traffic movement in Faridabad. The restriction shall remain in force from 7 AM to 12 AM until 4th April, said the officials.
