The Surajkund International Crafts Mela, which showcases art, crafts and culture of different states, may now be held twice a year.
This was hinted by the Chief Minister (CM), Manohar Lal Khattar, who presided over inauguration of the 32nd edition of the Mela by the Uttar Pradesh CM, Yogi Adityanath, at Surajkund in Faridabad on Friday.
This feast for the connoisseurs of art, crafts and culture will conclude on Feb 18, 2018. The duration of the event has this time been extended from 14 days to 16 days.
Speaking on the occasion, Khattar said such Melas should be organised to strengthen relations with neighbouring states. This year, more than 1,000 artists, artisans and craftsmen are participating in the Mela. Being the theme state, UP would remain the centre of attraction at the Mela.
People would get to see culture and art of about 28 countries at the Mela. Kyrgyzstan, famous for its lakes, is participating in the Mela as a partner country. Six memorandums of Understanding (MoU) have been signed between Kyrgyzstan and India for promoting tourism, agriculture and other sectors. Besides, a transport agreement has been signed between UP and Haryana, he added.
Speaking after inaugurating the Mela, UP CM Yogi Adityanath said he was happy that UP had been chosen as the theme state of this Mela for which he thanked Khattar government. The Surajkund Mela provides a platform to folk artists, craftsmen and artisans for cultural exchange.