By IANS,
Chandigarh: This city is set to host its first 10-day crafts extravaganza on the lines of the popular Surajkund Mela in Haryana.
Around 500 artists from across the country are expected to participate in the National Chandigarh Crafts Mela from Oct 24 to Nov 2. The fair will also witness thrilling performances by nearly 300 artists from different states.
“This mela will showcase the best handlooms and handicrafts of the country, including an assortment of folk culture and traditional cuisines from different states,” said Ram Niwas, Chandigarh’s home-cum-cultural affairs secretary.
“Our preparations are on in full swing. The theme state for this mela is the multi-dimensional and vivacious state of Jammu and Kashmir. Their Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will grace the inaugural function Oct 24.”
The Chandigarh administration is organising the fair at a budget of Rs.5 million, in collaboration with the North Zone Culture Centre (NZCC) at Kalagram, the cultural hub of this city.
Around 200 national and state award-winning artisans will showcase their works and crafts in the aesthetically decorated huts. Special emphasis is being given on highlighting the area-specific culture, paintings, costumes and designs in these huts.
“A large number of visitors are expected to witness the crafts mela from Chandigarh and surrounding states, including foreign tourists. So the administration will run a special bus service to Kalagram from various locations to facilitate the visitors,” said Niwas.
“Sufficient police officials will be deployed at the venue to avoid any untoward incident. CCTV cameras will be installed at various locations and cops will be stationed in civil clothes to keep a strong vigil on any anti-social element,” said a senior official of Chandigarh police.