Haryana Governor and CM grace the occasion
Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh, February 2 -
President of India Droupadi Murmu today inaugurated the 37th Surajkund International Crafts Fair-2024. Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya and Chief Minister Manohar Lal also attended the event.
Following the inauguration, the President commended all teams involved for the successful organization of this fair, which has been organised since 1987. He specifically lauded Haryana Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal and his team for their efforts in organizing this year's event.
Highlighting the Republic of Tanzania as the partner country of this year's fair, she informed the significance of cultural exchanges, which were discussed during her meetings with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan in October last year. She said that visitors to the fair will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant and colorful arts and crafts of Tanzania, including wood carving, pottery, and weaving. It is a wonderful platform to showcase Tanzanian dance, music and cuisine, in which we can also glimpse some Indian influence due to centuries of people-to-people contact between India and the East African coast. The participation of Tanzania as a partner nation in this fair highlights India's partnership with the African Union.
President highlighted the rich art and tradition of Gujarat, the partner state of this year's fair, as something truly worth experiencing. The diverse and vibrant art forms of the state will be showcased through the skilled craftsmen and artists representing various regions of Gujarat. She also noted that the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handloom Development Corporation Limited is the cultural partner of this year's fair, further enriching the cultural tapestry of the event. Mrs. Murmu expressed appreciation for the craftsmen who have diligently preserved the artistic heritage of the country, emphasizing that their dedication deserves commendation.
She said that a trade worth more than Rs 20 crore is expected during this fair, which is a huge platform from the economic point of view for the craftsmen and handloom traders.During the inauguration, the President visited Haryana's Apna Ghar Pavilion, where she received detailed information about the instruments showcasing Haryanvi culture. She also interacted with artisans while exploring the stalls representing Gujarat, the fair's theme state. In addition, she took interest in the cultural styles showcased by participating countries and regions, offering encouragement.
Speaking on this occasion, Haryana Governor Sh Bandaru Dattatreya hailed today as a historic milestone for the state of Haryana, underscoring the significant presence of President Smt. Draupadi Murmu, which has added a new dimension of grandeur to the fair. With her attendance, the day has been etched into the annals of Haryana's history. Governor Dattatreya said that this year's fair showcases Gujarat as the theme state, renowned for its cultural diversity and rich civilization, while Tanzania serves as the partner nation, which has the deep-rooted ties with India. He expressed hope that such collaborative events would further strengthen bilateral relations between the nations.
Haryana CM extended heartfelt gratitude to President on behalf of the people of the state for gracing Haryana with her presence. He underscored the historical significance of Surajkund, constructed by King Surajpal of the Tomar dynasty, situated at the foothills of the Aravalli range. Shaped like the rising sun and built in Roman style, Surajkund symbolizes progress, with the International Handicraft Fair, now in its 37th year, holding special significance. He stated that the Surajkund International Crafts Fair has become the identity of Haryana.
Union Minister of State for Heavy Industries Krishan Pal, Haryana Transport Minister Moolchand Sharma, Chief Secretary Sanjeev Kaushal, Director General of Police Shatrujit Kapur and other MPs and MLAs were also present on this occasion.