Preparations are in full swing for one of India's most awaited cultural extravaganzas. The 39th edition of the Surajkund International Crafts Mela is scheduled to take place from January 31 to February 15, 2026, in Faridabad. This grand event promises to be a vibrant celebration of global handicrafts, traditions, and performing arts.
A Global Cultural Confluence
This year, the mela gains a distinct international flavour with Egypt participating as the partner nation. The Egyptian pavilion is set to transport visitors to the land of the Pharaohs, with designs inspired by ancient pyramids, the iconic temples of Luxor, and the lively atmosphere of Cairo's traditional markets. Adding to the diversity, the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya will join as the theme states, offering deep dives into their unique crafts, cultural traditions, and culinary delights.
Haryana's Tourism Minister, Arvind Sharma, confirmed the details, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the event. The fair is being organised jointly by the Union Ministries of Tourism, Textiles, External Affairs, Culture, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), and the Haryana Tourism Department. The Ministry of External Affairs has already begun sending invitations through Indian embassies worldwide to solicit participation from various countries.
What Awaits the Visitors?
The scale of the mela is massive, with plans to set up over 1,000 stalls for artisans from across India and participating nations. The application process for craftspersons to secure these stalls is currently active. Beyond shopping for rare and exquisite handmade items, the 16-day fair will be a non-stop cultural carnival.
Each day will feature dedicated cultural performances by the partner nation and the theme states. The broader cultural carnival will serve as a major attraction, presenting a rich tapestry of multicultural dance and music. The event lineup is packed with activities including music concerts, classical dance recitals, poetic sessions (mushairas), comedy acts, and fashion shows.
Engaging street entertainment will be omnipresent, with visitors likely to encounter magicians, puppeteers, traditional banchari and been sapera performers, bioscope shows, and various forms of folk art around every corner.
Boosting Heritage Tourism
Minister Sharma emphasised the Surajkund Mela's significant international reputation, describing it as a premier cultural confluence. He noted that the event plays a crucial role in boosting global cultural exchange and solidifying India's position as a leading destination for heritage tourism. The mela is not just a fair; it's a diplomatic and cultural platform that brings the world to India's doorstep.
For art lovers, culture enthusiasts, and families, the Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2026 is shaping up to be an unmissable event, offering a unique blend of shopping, entertainment, and cultural immersion set against the backdrop of Faridabad's historic landscape.
