The
site of Surajkund craft mela is a small town called Surajkund
in Haryana. Just 8 km from South Delhi, Surajkund is a complex
of sorts.In the 10th century AD, there was an amphitheatre
sun-pool in Surajkund where the Tomars- the sun worshippers-
used to gather. Fascinated by the surroundings of the terrain,
Raja Suraj Pal, one of the chieftains,chose to build his stronghold
here. A sun-pool and temple were designed.It is after this
sun-pool that this complex came to be christened as Surajkund.Over
the years, Surajkund has grown into a suburban retreat.
The
Aravalli ranges surround the location. The uneven levels of
the land are dotted with clusters of silver oak, eucalyptus,
kikar, bottle brush and bougainvillea. Patches of green proclaim
the picnic spots.
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Hide-out fires dot the greens that look out at the sun pool.
It is in this vast open space that a festive event, Surajkund
Crafts Mela, is held each year from February 1 to 15, Skilled
artisans from all over the country come to this place to exhibit
and sell their ware in the fair ground which is beautifully
decorated with motifs from different states every year.
Even
the details of the decorations like festoons, handcrafted
lamp posts, lampshades, small huts and paintings are specimens
of exquisite craftsmanship. The cultural programs held in
the 'Natyashala' and the cuisine of rural India complement
the display of traditional handloom and handicrafts and impart
a uniquely Indian flavour to the whole package.
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