Held every year in the month of February in Faridabad, Surajkund Mela is thronged by a large number of visitors that runs into lakhs. A melting pot of cultures that is an amalgamation of arts and crafts that represent various states of India, the fair is a treat to the eyes. Besides, there is something for everyone at the mela. While the adults can soak in the Indian culture and buy traditional antiques and furniture to deck up the nooks and crannies of their home, the children can make merry by enjoying the joyrides and get an adrenaline rush by revelling in the joyrides.
For more information about the much-celebrated mela that foreign tourists find equally exciting, continue reading…
What: Surajkund Mela 2020
When: February 1 to 16, 2020
Where: Faridabad, Haryana
USP: Largest cultural fair in the world
What to buy: Paintings, home decor, furniture, pottery, lamps, carpets, mosaic, Benarasi sarees, spices, ornaments, etc.
Timings: 10:30 AM to 8:30 PM
History of Surajkund Crafts Mela
If you’re eager to gain an insight into the rich culture and heritage of India and believe in providing impetus to the local handicrafts, artists and craftsmen, the Surajkund Mela is a must visit. Organised annually by the Surajkund Mela Authority and Haryana Tourism in unison with the various Union Ministries of India, Surajkund Mela 2020 is the 34th in series.
The first ever Surajkund Mela was organised in the year 1987 with an aim to bring local artisans of India into the limelight. Architect Shri Surendra Patel who hailed from Gujarat is credited with designing the Surajkund grounds.
In the year 2013, the fair was given an upgrade to match international standards. Two years later, the countries that participated in the event surged to as many as twenty. Every year, the number of countries that participate in this grand year is increasing exponentially.
When the Surajkund Mela made its debut, its ambience was rather simple and imbued with a rustic essence. The rooftops were thatched and a large number of trees provided shade to the visitors. The gate, which provided entry into the mela premises, was a mud structure.
Starting from 1989, a theme state was designated for the mela every year and the first one that was assigned to it in the year was Rajasthan. Royal architecture and motifs were thus employed to remind one of the State. A Shekhawati Gate and a haveli were built to signify the majesty of Rajasthan.
The theme of Surajkund Mela 2020
Each year, the Surajkund Mela chooses a vibrant state as its theme and showcases its intriguing culture and traditions. For the year 2020, the state of Himachal Pradesh has been selected as the theme. Thus, one can expect to revel in the various folk songs and folk dances that the States boasts of and also get a taste of the delicacies it has to offer.
Stepping into the mela, you will find yourself marvelling over the decor, furniture, architecture, which though modest will catch your fancy in an instant. This year, all the interiors will remind you of the theme state, that is Himachal Pradesh. What’s more, an enchanting light and sound show will be put up every evening this year. Another highlight of the mela is an exquisite fashion show by celebrity designer Ritu Beri on February 2, 7 and 9.
In a first, England will participate in the mela.
Buying Tickets for Surajkund Mela 2020
The cost of the tickets varies on weekdays and weekends. While from Mondays to Fridays, the ticket per person will be priced at INR 120. On weekends, the tickets will cost INR 180. There will be a 50 per cent rebate on the price of the tickets for the differently abled citizens, serving defence personnel as well as former servicemen.
College and school students can also avail of this discount during entry by producing their identity cards.
As a part of the Beti Padhao Beti Bachao Andolan, girls from government schools will be provided free entry during weekdays. Freedom fighters and war widows can also enter the premises free of cost provided they are carrying their ID proof.
The tickets to the crafts mela can also be bought online on Bookmyshow.com.
How to Reach Surajkund Mela
Buses will be plying to the mela from ISBT, Shivaji Stadium, Gurgaon,Faridabad and Surajkund. Cabs can also be hired to the venue from Delhi.
If you are travelling to Surajkund Mela by metro, the closest metro station to the venue is Badarpur. From the IGI airport, the closest metro station is Airport Station Terminal 3 and Delhi AeroCity.
From New Delhi railway station, New Delti station is the closest to reach Surajkund Mela.
Faridabad is well connected to Delhi and NCR.