Surajkund Mela witnessed a heavy rush on a weekend, in Faridabad on Sunday. Photo: PTI
"The 27th Surajkund International Crafts Mela has created a history with the
highest footfall recorded for a single day at 1.42 lakh. A new milestone was reached on Sunday crossing all previous footfall records," a spokesman of the Haryana government said here Monday.
The fair, which made a modest beginning in 1981, witnessed a total footfall of nearly 175,000 in 1989. The fair saw nearly a million visitors in 2012.
Artist of Assam perform the Bihu dance in 27th Surajkund International Crafts Mela, in Faridabad. Photo: Parveen Kumar/Hindustan Times
President Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the fair, held in Haryana's Faridabad district, Feb 2 this year. Besides the rich culture and craftsmanship of nearly all states in the country, the two-week event has seen participation from 20 countries this time.
Folk artists pose one for camera during Surajkund International Crafts Mela in Faridabad. Photo: PTI
"The success of Surajkund Crafts Mela is credited to the availability of modern amenities of safe drinking water, clean environment, high maintenance of law and order, clean and hygienic public conveniences and efficient transport facilities with the due efforts of policing and security agencies, district administration and the mela authority," the spokesman said.
The fair, held in an area of around 40 acres, will continue till Feb 15.
Artist from Kango country at the Chaupal of the 27th Surajkund Arts and Crafts Mela in Faridabad. Photo: PTI
Surajkund derives its name from the ancient amphitheatre Sun Pool constructed here in the 10th century by Raja Suraj Pal, one of the Tomar chieftains. The place is located in the foothills of Aravalli mountain range.
South African artists performing during Surajkund International Crafts Mela in Faridabad. Photo: PTI