Haryana Heritage and Tourism Minister Arvind Sharma announced that the 39th Surajkund International Aatmanirbhar Craft Festival, starting on January 31, aims to have a significant global cultural and tourism impact. The event aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, focusing on enhancing the cultural heritage of artists, artisans, and weavers from India and abroad.
The festival, themed ‘Local to Global — Aatmanirbhar Bharat,’ will kick off with Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan inaugurating the craft conclave at Surajkund in Faridabad on January 31. Special guests include Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. The 16-day festival will culminate on February 15, with Governor Prof Ashim Kumar Ghosh as the chief guest.
Minister Sharma emphasized that the Surajkund craft festival is not just an event but a celebration of India’s cultural unity, craftsmanship, and self-reliance spirit. The festival aims to uphold the state’s heritage, provide sustainable livelihoods for artisans, and foster international cultural collaboration. Egypt, as the partner nation for the fourth time, will showcase its ancient art and culture, while Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya will highlight their rich cultural traditions.
Nearly 800 participants from over 50 countries, including 1,200 stalls for national and international weavers and artisans, will participate in the festival. Renowned artists like Kailash Kher, Gurdas Maan, and Mahabir Guddu will perform, alongside regional artists showcasing traditional musical instruments. Infrastructure development worth approximately Rs 4.75 crore has been undertaken at the fairground to enhance the visitor experience.
Commissioner and Secretary (Heritage and Tourism) Amit Kumar Agrawal highlighted that the festival aims to promote artisans and their craftsmanship, enhancing self-reliance and export potential. The event provides a global platform for local products, aligning with the vision of ‘Local to Global.’
