Uttar Pradesh has been chosen as the featured state for the prestigious 39th Surajkund International Craft Mela, a major global event celebrating handicrafts and folk traditions. The fair is set to take place in Haryana from January 31 to February 14, 2025.
A Grand Platform for Uttar Pradesh's Artisans
This selection provides a significant international stage for Uttar Pradesh to display its immense cultural wealth. The state plans to highlight its diverse handicraft legacy, handloom products, folk music and dance forms, and distinctive regional cuisine. The initiative is strategically designed to offer wider market access to local artisans and boost the state's profile as a premier heritage tourism destination.
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh emphasized that the upcoming edition will be particularly special for UP, with a concentrated spotlight on traditional crafts and weavers. A key attraction will be approximately 40 stalls organized under the state's flagship One District One Product (ODOP) scheme.
Showcasing Iconic Crafts from Across UP
These dedicated stalls will exhibit signature products from various districts, turning the fair into a microcosm of Uttar Pradesh's artistic excellence. Visitors can expect to see:
- Glass bangles from Firozabad
- Perfumes from Kannauj
- Black pottery from Azamgarh
- Khurja pottery
- Bhadohi carpets
- Zardozi and Chikankari embroidery from Varanasi and Lucknow
A Vibrant Cultural Extravaganza
Cultural programming will form the heartbeat of UP's participation. Officials have outlined an ambitious schedule featuring five to six live performances every day between 10 am and 6 pm. These will encompass a rich variety of folk music, traditional dances, and regional art forms from across the state.
Each day, nearly 50 to 100 artists are expected to take the stage, ensuring a continuous cultural feast. Adding to the weekend excitement, three fashion shows are planned to display both traditional and contemporary attire, jewellery, and textile designs originating from Uttar Pradesh.
Focus on Sustainability and Global Outreach
Amrit Abhijat, Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture, noted that the mela offers an invaluable global platform to highlight UP's folk traditions and craftsmanship. He further explained that the state's presentation will incorporate eco-friendly décor and digital tools, alongside a strong promotion of its regional cuisine. This approach is intended to reinforce Uttar Pradesh's commitment to sustainable and community-centric tourism.
The Surajkund International Craft Mela is globally recognized for bringing together traditional artisans, craftspeople, and folk performers from across India and numerous other countries. Uttar Pradesh's role as the theme state is poised to make the 2025 edition a landmark celebration of its artistic heritage.
