Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan inaugurates 39th Surajkund International Crafts Festival
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, January 31, 2026: Vice President of India, C.P. Radhakrishnan on Saturday inaugurated the 39th edition of the Surajkund International Crafts Festival at Surajkund in Haryana, describing it as a living embodiment of India’s timeless philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which views the world as one family.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President said the festival serves as a vibrant platform that unites skilled hands, creative minds and centuries-old traditions, celebrating India’s artistic excellence, cultural continuity and the spirit of self-reliance. He noted that for nearly four decades, the Surajkund Crafts Festival has provided global recognition to artisans, weavers, sculptors, painters and folk artists, helping preserve traditional art forms across generations.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Haryana Chief Minister Shri Nayab Singh Saini, Union Minister of State Shri Krishan Pal Gurjar, Haryana Urban Local Bodies Minister Shri Vipul Goel, Heritage and Tourism Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma, Ministers of State Shri Rajesh Nagar and Shri Gaurav Gautam, along with several senior officials and dignitaries.
Upon arrival, the Vice President visited the “Haryana Apna Ghar” pavilion, where he received a traditional welcome with a Haryanvi turban. He also toured the theme state Meghalaya’s stalls, interacted with artisans, and witnessed cultural performances from various participating states and countries. The formal inauguration was marked by the lighting of a ceremonial lamp at the main Chaupal stage. The Vice President also launched the “Mela Saathi” mobile application to enhance the visitor experience.
Highlighting government initiatives, Shri Radhakrishnan said schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman Yojana have empowered artisans by providing skill development, financial assistance and market access, placing traditional crafts at the centre of India’s cultural resurgence. He said the participation of states like Uttar Pradesh and Meghalaya reflects the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, while welcoming Egypt as the partner country strengthened cultural diplomacy and people-to-people ties.
Emphasising the importance of handcrafted products in an era of mass production, the Vice President said the festival celebrates human creativity and authentic artistry. He noted that nearly 15 lakh visitors attended the festival last year, with steadily rising sales of artisans’ products, highlighting both its cultural and commercial success.
Several former ministers, MLAs, senior officers of the Heritage and Tourism Department, and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.