Artisans custodians of India’s civilisational heritage: Vice President

Faridabad, Jan 31: Vice President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, Saturday inaugurated the 39th Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Crafts Mela at Faridabad, Haryana. The internationally acclaimed fair brings together artisans, craftspeople and cultural practitioners from India and abroad, celebrating the country’s rich artistic heritage and the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat .
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President said that the Surajkund Mela has, over the past four decades, emerged as a living symbol of India’s cultural soul, artistic excellence and civilisational continuity. With participation from more than 30 countries, the Mela truly reflects India’s timeless philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family.
The Vice President noted that the focus on Atmanirbhar Bharat adds deeper meaning to the event, as artisans are the custodians of centuries-old knowledge and traditions. Empowering them, he said, is essential for building an inclusive, sustainable and self-reliant economy. He highlighted that initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman Yojana are strengthening the handicrafts ecosystem through skill development, market access and economic support.
Referring to the theme States—Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya—the Vice President said that the two States beautifully showcase India’s unity in diversity. While Uttar Pradesh reflects a legacy of refined craftsmanship across textiles, metalwork and embroidery, Meghalaya’s indigenous crafts exemplify sustainability, harmony with nature and community-based traditions, together embodying the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.
The Vice President also warmly welcomed Egypt, the partner country for this year’s Mela, and said that Egypt’s ancient civilisation, artistic traditions and cultural depth resonate strongly with India’s own historical journey. He earlier visited the Egypt Pavilion and appreciated the country’s rich traditions and artistic excellence, underscoring the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening people-to-people ties.
During the event, the Vice-President appreciated the vibrant cultural performances presented on the theme of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat, which highlighted India’s pluralistic ethos and cultural harmony. He also launched the Mela Saathi Mobile App, aimed at enhancing visitor experience and providing easy access to information related to the fair.
The Vice President commended the Surajkund Mela Authority, the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Textiles, the Ministry of External Affairs, and the Government of Haryana for their sustained efforts in organising the Mela. He urged visitors to support artisans directly and carry forward India’s living heritage.
Those present on the occasion included Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini; Union Minister of State for Cooperation Krishan Pal Gurjar; Haryana Ministers Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma, Vipul Goel, Rajesh Nagar and Gaurav Gautam; Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt Kamel Zayed Galal; Members of Haryana Legislative Assembly, and other dignitaries. (PIB)