<p>President Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the 27th International Crafts Mela at Surajkund on Saturday and branded it as one of the few events preserving and promoting India’s diverse art, culture and heritage.<br /><br /></p>.<p>The fair, running since 1987, has been upgraded as an international festival this year with a record participation of 20 countries. <br /><br />It also has Karnataka as its featured state this time which is showcasing its monuments, folk music and dance, handicrafts, textile and floriculture at the fair.<br /><br />Welcoming the President, foreign dignitaries, over 800 artistes from across the country and visitors, Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda said: “The Surajkund Fair has gathered immense popularity. Therefore, we increased the area to 40 acres and the number of stalls from 630 to 735 this year.”<br /><br />“The fair is important for connecting our urban youth to India’s rural culture and art.”<br />Expressing his happiness to be a part of the fair, Mukherjee said: “It is thanks to our craftsmen that our ancient traditions are still alive today. <br /><br />Due to a number of constraints like lack of technology, credit and market, many craftsmen were leaving this trade; however, it is a good sign that they are coming back to their familial business with the growth of such fairs.”<br /><br />“I personally enjoyed the architecture of the gates modelled after Karnataka’s Mysore palace, Hampi, Belur and Jain Basadis. Karnataka is known for its unique art and folk traditions. It is sure to attract many visitors to the fair this time.”<br /><br />Earlier, a cultural troupe from Karnataka welcomed the President with folk dances led by Rajya Sabha MP B Jayashree. He was also presented a sandalwood statue of Lord Krishna.<br /><br />Dance groups from all over the country as well as participating foreign nations are slated to perform at the fair till February 15. The states are also showcasing their cuisines at a food court with the Karnataka stall attracting maximum crowds.<br /><br />A festive ambience has been created with stunning models of the sun, tree and peacock symbolising energy, growth and warmth. A replica of Geeta Dwar of Kurukshetra in Haryana has also added a touch of grandeur to the mela.</p>
<p>President Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the 27th International Crafts Mela at Surajkund on Saturday and branded it as one of the few events preserving and promoting India’s diverse art, culture and heritage.<br /><br /></p>.<p>The fair, running since 1987, has been upgraded as an international festival this year with a record participation of 20 countries. <br /><br />It also has Karnataka as its featured state this time which is showcasing its monuments, folk music and dance, handicrafts, textile and floriculture at the fair.<br /><br />Welcoming the President, foreign dignitaries, over 800 artistes from across the country and visitors, Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda said: “The Surajkund Fair has gathered immense popularity. Therefore, we increased the area to 40 acres and the number of stalls from 630 to 735 this year.”<br /><br />“The fair is important for connecting our urban youth to India’s rural culture and art.”<br />Expressing his happiness to be a part of the fair, Mukherjee said: “It is thanks to our craftsmen that our ancient traditions are still alive today. <br /><br />Due to a number of constraints like lack of technology, credit and market, many craftsmen were leaving this trade; however, it is a good sign that they are coming back to their familial business with the growth of such fairs.”<br /><br />“I personally enjoyed the architecture of the gates modelled after Karnataka’s Mysore palace, Hampi, Belur and Jain Basadis. Karnataka is known for its unique art and folk traditions. It is sure to attract many visitors to the fair this time.”<br /><br />Earlier, a cultural troupe from Karnataka welcomed the President with folk dances led by Rajya Sabha MP B Jayashree. He was also presented a sandalwood statue of Lord Krishna.<br /><br />Dance groups from all over the country as well as participating foreign nations are slated to perform at the fair till February 15. The states are also showcasing their cuisines at a food court with the Karnataka stall attracting maximum crowds.<br /><br />A festive ambience has been created with stunning models of the sun, tree and peacock symbolising energy, growth and warmth. A replica of Geeta Dwar of Kurukshetra in Haryana has also added a touch of grandeur to the mela.</p>
