Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Patiala: Saras Mela concludes at Sheesh Mahal
Babushahi Bureau
Patiala (Punjab), February 23, 2025: The Saras Mela, held at Sheesh Mahal, Patiala, from February 14, concluded today, leaving behind unforgettable memories.
Deputy Commissioner Dr. Preeti Yadav and Additional Deputy Commissioner (Rural Development) Anuprita Johal presided over the closing ceremony, honoring those who contributed to the success of the event.
Dr. Preeti Yadav stated that the district administration, in collaboration with the Rural Development and Panchayat Department, the Union Ministry of Culture, the Punjab Tourism and Cultural Department, and the North Zone Cultural Centre, organized this mela to provide a significant platform for artisans, craftsmen, and self-help groups.
The mela featured a diverse range of handmade items, including phulkari embroidery, chikankari suits, wooden and iron furniture, pottery, pickles, and traditional food, which attracted a large number of visitors.
Over the course of ten days, the mela witnessed a footfall of approximately four lakh visitors, both from within the country and abroad, resulting in sales amounting to nearly ₹3 crore. Stalls from Turkey, Thailand, Egypt, and Afghanistan drew significant attention, adding an international touch to the event.
At the closing ceremony, self-help groups with the highest sales were recognized and awarded. Among them, Anita Devi from Bihar recorded the highest sales, amounting to ₹4,79,500, followed by Harpreet Kaur of the Patiala King Ajeevika Group, who made sales worth ₹1,24,500. Delhi-based artisan Afzal Ahmed was also honored for his sales of ₹4.57 lakh.
The mela was not just a marketplace but also a cultural hub, featuring over 200 stalls from 20 states and 4 countries that showcased a variety of handicrafts and traditional products. The North Zone Cultural Centre organized vibrant performances with the participation of 80 artists, who entertained the audience with folk dances, music, and traditional arts. Spectacular performances of Bhangra, Giddha, acrobatics, and Rajasthani folk arts mesmerized the visitors, enhancing the festive atmosphere of the mela.
Food lovers found the Saras Mela to be a delight, as it offered a wide variety of regional and international cuisines, including Gujarati dishes, Rajasthani sweets, Haryanvi desserts, Bombay street food, South Indian delicacies, and even Chinese cuisine. The flavors and aromas of diverse dishes added to the excitement of the event, making it a paradise for gastronomes.
Adding to the entertainment quotient, Star Nights were organized, where popular artists such as Ranjit Bawa, Mohammad Irshad, Glory Bawa, Sardar Ali, and Satwinder Bugga performed, drawing massive crowds and enhancing the charm of the event. Their performances added a lively and festive spirit to the mela, making it a memorable experience for visitors.
As the mela came to a successful conclusion, ADC Anuprita Johal expressed gratitude to SSP Dr. Nanak Singh, Assistant Director of NZCC Ravinder Sharma, and other officials for their support in organizing the event. She also appreciated the contributions of volunteers, ITI students, and members of the Power House Youth Club, acknowledging their dedication and hard work in making the mela a grand success.
The Saras Mela not only provided a platform for artisans and craftsmen but also showcased Punjab’s rich cultural heritage. With its remarkable success this year, officials assured that similar events would continue to be organized in Patiala in the future, ensuring that both residents and visitors get to experience the vibrant and diverse culture of India under one roof.