Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan Inaugurates 39th Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Crafts Mela in Faridabad.
Faridabad:
The Vice-President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, today inaugurated the 39th Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Crafts Mela at Faridabad, Haryana. The globally renowned fair brings together artisans, craftspeople, and cultural practitioners from India and over 30 countries, celebrating the nation’s rich artistic traditions and the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President described the Surajkund Mela as a living symbol of India’s cultural soul, artistic excellence, and civilisational continuity, stating that over the past four decades it has evolved into a major platform showcasing India’s heritage to the world. He noted that the participation of more than 30 countries reflects India’s timeless philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family.
Highlighting the importance of the Atmanirbhar Bharat theme, the Vice-President said that artisans are the true custodians of India’s civilisational heritage, preserving centuries-old knowledge and traditions. Empowering them, he emphasized, is crucial for building an inclusive, sustainable, and self-reliant economy. He also referred to initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman Yojana, which are strengthening the handicrafts ecosystem through skill development, market access, and financial support.
Speaking on this year’s theme States—Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya—the Vice-President said the two States beautifully represent India’s unity in diversity. Uttar Pradesh showcases a legacy of refined craftsmanship in textiles, metalwork, and embroidery, while Meghalaya’s indigenous crafts highlight sustainability, harmony with nature, and community-based traditions, together embodying the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.
The Vice-President warmly welcomed Egypt, the partner country for this year’s Mela, noting that its ancient civilisation and artistic traditions resonate deeply with India’s own historical journey. He visited the Egypt Pavilion and appreciated its rich cultural heritage, underscoring the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening people-to-people ties between nations.
During the event, the Vice-President lauded the vibrant cultural performances based on the theme of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat, which reflected India’s pluralistic ethos and cultural harmony. He also launched the Mela Saathi Mobile App, aimed at enhancing the visitor experience by providing easy access to information related to the fair.
Commending the efforts of the Surajkund Mela Authority, the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Textiles, Ministry of External Affairs, and the Government of Haryana, the Vice-President urged visitors to support artisans directly and help preserve and promote India’s living heritage.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Union Minister of State for Cooperation Krishan Pal Gurjar, Haryana Ministers Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma, Vipul Goel, Rajesh Nagar, and Gaurav Gautam, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt Kamel Zayed Galal, Members of the Haryana Legislative Assembly, and other distinguished dignitaries.
