Whatever I Like: 2015

Feb 1 to Feb 15, is the time for all Delhi-NCR people to enjoy the MELA and tap their feet with the beats of enthralling folk dancers across the country.

Yes..its the Surajkund International Crafts Fair organised every year in Surajkund, Haryana by Haryana Tourism Department . This Mela is the celebration of unique diversity of Indian tradition & culture with the splash of vibrant colors, rhythm of drum beats, folk dances and authentic foods. It is the platform for many talented artists from India and across the world to showcase their exquisite handicrafts and hand-looms of their respective state.

In 2013, this mela was upgraded to an international level and over 15 countries participated in this mela to show their regional crafts and traditions. Every year, there is one theme state and one partner nation, which is the highlight of this Mela. This year, Chhattisgarh and Lebanon are the highlights of it.

Because of the benefit of staying very near to the Surajkund, I always manage to visit there almost every year. I still remember the Surajkund mela of my childhood time..when there was a large circular kund (lake) in the center of ground and we used to have play, eat and enjoy around that lake. but now that area was blocked because lake has dried up. sometimes it looks like pale shadow of past glory :( but still this past glory is maintained by the talented artists from all over the country :)

Here are the some glimpse of Surajkund Mela

Dance performances by school kids.. they all were looking so fabulous in different attires and one special thing about these kids was the smile on their faces which makes everyone to smile.

Always ready to pose

Theme State "Chhattisgarh" known for their tribal heritage and culture & famous for the Bastar art.

And here is the Partner Nation "Lebanon", a republic in western Asia. They present their skills, crafts and cultural troupes which is really enthralling.

Few more attractions of mela

a mela is incomplete without these rides

decoration on trees

Chaupal has been always the main attraction of the mela, with visitors enjoyed every bit of national and international performances being stages by the folk artists. I really enjoyed alot this part of mela.