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Withthe launch of the Surajkund Crafts Mela in 1981, Haryana
Tourism set a precedent in organizing cultural events on a national level.
Now internationally famous, the fortnight long fair also celebrates the
rhythms of folk theatre - all of which endear one to the simple charm of
the Suraj Kund Mela village.
The
Crafts Mela celebrates the finest handlooms and handicrafts traditions of
country. Held in the month of February from 1st-15th, the fair embodies
the spirit that runs through the people of India and its rich culture. The
Suraj Kund Crafts Mela is held just 8 kms from South Delhi, at Suraj Kund.
The Dazzling Spectacle
Beneath thatched roof platforms, master craftspersons carefully display
the finest of handlooms and handicrafts from all over the country. The
event is so colorful and rich in experience, that many a tourist has
returned to visit it again and again. The prices are relatively low
compared to emporia, and some of the stuff can be amazing.
Shops at the Mela bustle with the brilliance of mirror encasing
embroidery, delicate lace work, folk motifs on terracotta forms, metal and
cane-ware, the tinkle of bangles, shimmer of iridescent silks and the
jingle of toys and trinkets. The Suraj Kund Crafts Mela is more than a
celebration of crafts. At the fan shaped open-air-theatre name
'Natyashala' rich folk dances and musical evenings are held throughout the
fortnight.
The Irresistible Cuisine
The fun-filled mela celebrations every year, come as a mini food
festival. Some of the popular food traditions arrive from Punjab and South
Indian delicacies come in from the South Indian section. Popular Chinese
and snack foods also arrive for the event alongwith a special stall where
patrons are introduced to the traditional foods and sweet meats of the
theme state.
The Suraj Kund Crafts Mela also comes as an event that celebrates the
vibrant rhythms of folk theatre. All these colourful events flower before
the audience in the open-air-theatre named Natyashala.
Artistically Dexterous Crafts
For
the mela, some of the most delightful crafts collections arrive from
practically all over the country. In wood and cane craft come inlay work
from Punjab and rosewood carving, sandalwood from South India. 'Chikri'
woodcraft of Kashmir
and some very fine cane craft come from
West Bengal
and North Eastern states. Delicate 'Sholapith' and 'Shital Patti' work
come from Assam and West Bengal. In embroidery, the Phulkari of
Punjab , the
'Banjara' and 'Bunni' embroidery of Gujarat and Rajasthan, the 'Kantha'
traditions from West Bengal and Tripura, lace and crochet from
Goa , the 'Suzni' of
Kashmir and mirror encasing work alongwith the traditional 'Chikan' work
of Lucknow delight.
In the section of floor covering the 'Namda' and carpet of Kashmir, the
'Punja Durrie' of Haryana and Punjab, the woollen druggets of Mirzapur and
coir and rag carpets of south India fascinate the visitors.
Oxidized jewellery, seashell decorations and agate stone work delight as
also the delicate gold work and chunky silver jewellery. Toys in wood and
cane, ply and mud make the young thrill with joy.
The fascinating 'Phad' paintings of Rajasthan, the 'Kalamkari' of Andhra
and Karnataka, temple paintings of Orissa, 'Madhubani' of Bihar are also
on display. In the metal section, tribal 'Dhora' work, classical South
Indian metal work, glittering brassware, bell metal and iron craft delight
collectors.
How To Get There
Suraj Kund is 8 kms from South Delhi. Special buses and other modes of
transport link the Mela ground to major bus stops in
Delhi ,
Gurgaon and Faridabad.
Timings
The Mela begins from 9.30 a.m. and closes at 5.30 p.m. each evening from
1st to 15th February every year. 
Where To Stay
Hotel Raj Hans: luxuriously decorated.
Suraj Kund Motel
Suraj Kund Mela Authority:
For further details on tourist facilities and reservations
Haryana Govt. Tourist /bureau, 36, Janpath, New Delhi: 110001,
India.
Hotel Raj Hans, Suraj Kund Faridabad, Haryana, India