Surajkund, translating to the “Lake of the Sun,” bears significant historical importance, deriving its name from the ancient reservoir constructed by King Suraj Pal of the Tomar dynasty in the 10th century.
Originating in 1987, the Surajkund Mela occurs annually in February, aiming to bolster tourism in Haryana by showcasing its rich handicrafts, handlooms, and cultural heritage.
The Surajkund Mela is a collaborative effort between the Surajkund Mela Authority, Haryana Tourism, and various Union Ministries including Tourism, Textiles, Culture, and External Affairs.
Since its inception, all states of India have actively participated in the fair, with one state typically designated as the Theme State.
Elevated to an international level in 2013 and renamed the “28th Surajkund International Crafts Mela,” the event attracted participation from over 15 countries, including those from Europe, Africa, and SAARC nations in 2014.
In 2015, a record-breaking 20 countries took part, with Lebanon as the Partner Nation and Chhattisgarh as the Theme State.
In the latest iteration in 2024, nearly 40 countries, including Tanzania, participated, providing attendees with glimpses into African culture alongside the cultural partnerships of all eight northeastern states.
Kicking off on February 1st, the Surajkund International Crafts Mela transforms Faridabad, Haryana, into a vibrant hub of colors, drum beats, and jubilation, celebrating Indian folk traditions and cultural heritage.
Drawing over a million visitors, including hundreds of thousands of foreigners, the Mela serves as a testament to global diversity, showcasing a plethora of arts, handicrafts, cuisines, and cultural tapestries.
As the world’s largest crafts fair, the Surajkund Mela celebrates India’s rich cultural fabric, offering designated areas for amusement, adventure sports, and joy rides, catering to visitors of all ages.
The event showcases some of India’s most exquisite handlooms and handicrafts, featuring handmade fabrics adorned in ethnic hues that captivate visitors’ attention.
Amidst cultural performances and exhibitions, the Mela serves as a custodian of heritage crafts, preserving traditional skills endangered by mass-produced imitations.
Visitors can engage in immersive experiences like getting their photos taken after donning the traditional ‘Haryanvi Pagdi’ at the Virasat Cultural Exhibition stall.
The exhibition also features displays of iron, brass, and wooden bells used for various animals, alongside wooden printing blocks and measurement scales from pre-Independence rural India.
The Surajkund Mela fosters cultural exchange and understanding through art and crafts, building bridges across borders.
Culinary delights from around the world await visitors at the multi-cuisine Food Court, offering an array of ethnic cuisines beloved by attendees.
