Surajkund fair is a unique confluence of heritage and culture: Prabhati Parida
Delhi NCR Holds Immense Tourism Potential, Haryana Excelling in It: Dr. Arvind Sharma
5 Dariya News
Faridabad 19-Feb-2025
The 38th Surajkund International Crafts Mela in Faridabad was painted in the vibrant hues of Odisha, the theme state, on Wednesday. The event was graced by Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister, Smt. Prabhati Parida, and Haryana’s Heritage and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma, who visited the Odisha, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh pavilions during the evening carnival parade.
They lauded the fair as a remarkable showcase of India’s rich art and culture.During the cultural evening program at the main Chaupal, Odisha’s Deputy CM, Smt. Prabhati Parida, emphasized that international fairs like this serve as an effective medium to preserve and pass on a nation’s cultural heritage to the next generation.
She expressed her gratitude to Haryana for selecting Odisha as the theme state, allowing Surajkund to be immersed in Odisha’s cultural essence, which she considered a matter of pride.She highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is progressing towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, with unity as its core principle.
She stated that PM Modi’s vision of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas" (Collective Effort, Inclusive Growth, Trust, and Participation) is becoming a reality. She stressed the importance of cultural and artistic events in realizing the vision of a developed India while also fostering national unity and integrity.Smt. Parida emphasized the need to promote heritage and culture.
She expressed her gratitude to Haryana’s Chief Minister, Shri Nayab Singh Saini, and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma, for giving her the opportunity to visit Surajkund for the first time as Deputy CM. She appreciated the platform provided to promote Odisha’s culture on an international level, further encouraging art, culture, and craftsmanship.
She praised the Surajkund Mela for offering a unique experience with its diverse pavilions, handicrafts, traditional cuisines, and cultural performances. She noted that this event not only promotes art and culture but also provides artisans and artists with an invaluable opportunity to showcase their talent.
The Deputy CM of Odisha highlighted that Lord Jagannath, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Balabhadra, along with Odisha’s handicrafts, Sambalpuri sarees, and cuisine, make Odisha a hub for spiritual tourism. She expressed her deep appreciation for the respect she received in Haryana, particularly when she was honored with a traditional Haryanvi turban.
Haryana’s Heritage and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma, welcomed the Deputy CM and stated that under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, both the nation and the state have been continuously progressing over the past decade. He noted that since 2014, the attraction of the Surajkund Mela has been increasing every year, with nearly 1.3 million visitors attending in just the first eight days.
He described the fair as a confluence of national and international art, national unity, and cultural diversity, aligning with PM Modi’s vision of making India self-reliant by 2047.Dr. Sharma urged the attendees to actively participate in PM Modi’s vision of a developed India.
He highlighted the immense potential for tourism in the Delhi-NCR region and mentioned the plans for a jungle safari and a Disney Land-like attraction on 10,000 acres in Haryana, as envisioned by PM Modi and CM Nayab Singh Saini. He also encouraged visitors to explore the exhibition of handicraft products displayed by Haryana’s prison department at the fair.
He expressed gratitude to Odisha’s Deputy CM for allowing Odisha to be the theme state and extended his appreciation to both national and international artists.At the conclusion of the event, Haryana Tourism Corporation’s MD, Dr. Sunil Kumar, extended thanks to Odisha’s Deputy CM, Smt. Prabhati Parida, Haryana’s Heritage and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma, and all other esteemed guests.
He mentioned that Odisha has had the honor of being the theme state twice, which is a commendable step in promoting art and culture.The event was also attended by National Commission for Women Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, Odisha’s Special Resident Commissioner Mrinalini Darswal, Haryana State Women’s Commission Chairperson Renu Bhatia, Haryana Tourism Corporation MD Dr. Sunil Kumar, GM U.S. Bharadwaj, Kuldeep Singh, Odisha Pavilion Nodal Officer Pranab Kumar Chand, and other dignitaries and officials.