The cultural performances, crafts and international exhibitors are back. It’s alright, but what you should look out for at the 62nd Surajkund Crafts Mela are the new attractions.
The 15-day mela will see participation from cultural troupes and artisans from all over the country and around ten countries.
“This year’s mela promises many firsts. With more internationalparticipants, the mela will have a global twist this time,” says Anand Mohan Sharan, member of administration, Surajkund Mela Association and managing director, Haryana Tourism Corporation.
Assam features as this year’s theme at the mela with over 100 cultural performers and artisans from the state, who’ll highlight its heritage. Thailand is the partner nation this year.
“This is the first time all the SAARC countries are participating in the festival. The exchange of cultures will be great,” says Sharan.
From fashion shows, theatre, folk music and dances to a musical band performance on Valentine’s Day, the evenings at the mela will showcase an entertaining variety show.
While charting out your day at the mela, watch out for cultural performances at the Natyashala from 5.30 pm onwards; folk lovers must slot a visit to the Chaupal at 7.30pm.
“There will be more than 400 folk artists who will perform at the Chaupal everyday. Out of this, 100 artists will be from Assam alone,” says Sharan.
Being slated as the most sought after showcase at the festival, the five cultural gala evenings will host special performances by Ability Unlimited Foundation, a fashion show by Shaina NC, a medley of Indian dances by a troupe from Kingdom of Dreams and a medley of cultural music by foreign troupes.
“There will be more than 400 folk artists who will perform at the Chaupal everyday. Out of this, 100 artists will be from Assam alone,” says Sharan.
Being slated as the most sought after showcase at the festival, the five cultural gala evenings will host special performances by Ability Unlimited Foundation, a fashion show by Shaina NC, a medley of Indian dances by a troupe from Kingdom of Dreams and a medley of cultural music by foreign troupes.
While entry to these events will be by invitation only, the performances at Natyashala and Chaupal will be open to all. Foodies can rejoice too as there’s also a food court serving various cuisine at the mela.
What’s new this year
E-ticketing: Now you can book tickets on the website of Haryana Government.
A 50% discount on entry tickets for senior citizens and the disabled persons.
E-toilet: Electronic toilets with automatic cleaning facility.
A partner nation for the first time. It will be Thailand for this year.
All SAARC nations are to participate in the mela.
Here you go...
What: Surajkund Crafts Mela 2012
When: February 1-15
Timing: 9.30am-7.30pm
Where: Surajkund, Faridabad
Entry: Rs 50 per person
Nearest metro station: Badarpur on the Violet Line