he President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the 37th Surajkund International Crafts Mela at Surajkund, Haryana today (February 2, 2024).
Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the Surajkund International Crafts Mela is a celebration of our cultural diversity. This fair is a celebration of our tradition as well as innovation. It is an effective platform to connect our craftsmen with art lovers. This fair is both an art exhibition and a business centre.
The President said that art and craft cut across borders and build bridges of understanding. Artists and crafts-persons are creative ambassadors of humanity. She stated that Gujarat, the partner state of this year’s Mela, has a very rich art tradition. She was happy to note that North-Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation is the cultural partner at this year’s Surajkund International Crafts Mela.
The President appreciated artisans for preserving the artistic heritage of our country. She said that craftsmen and sculptors put life into clay and stone. Painters create pictures through colours that look vibrant. Craftsmen create incredible shapes and forms out of various metals and solid materials like wood. Imaginative weavers create amazing beauty in textiles and garments. Such craftsmen have been both creators and protectors of India’s civilization and culture. She was happy that today’s artisan brothers and sisters are taking forward the precious heritage of our civilization and culture.
The President was happy to note that Tanzania is the partner nation for this year’s Mela. She said that it is a wonderful platform to showcase Tanzanian dance, music, and cuisine, in which we can also glimpse some Indian influence, thanks to the centuries of people-to-people contact between India and the East African coast. She underlined that Tanzania’s participation as the partner nation in this Mela highlights India’s engagement with the African Union.
