The 29th edition of 15 days long Surajkund International Crafts Mela that began at Surajkund, Faridabad on February 1 with 18 countries participating in the 'mela'. Several artists from different countries including partner nation Lebanon and states like Chhattisgarh, Punjab, and Haryana enthralled the audience with their textiles and designs.

The event was inaugurated by the Managing Director of Haryana Tourism and Chief Administrator Sumita Misra, was followed by 'Gaur' dance of the Madia tribe of Bastar in Chhattisgarh.

The theme state Chhattisgarh showcased its unique handloom designs and rich textile through a Fashion Show on the seventh day of the mela. The state gave a modern and formal twist to its handloom and Bunkar style garments, created by the Chhattisgarh Apex Handloom Federation and National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).

The Fashion Show witnessed the state's celebrated fabric, the Kosa silk, which are produced in Champa town of Chhattisgarh by the Devangan community. The state celebrated its unique cultural along with tribal heritage and historical heritage in an impressive manner.

Meanwhile, Mathura's hand-cut designs on paper, Sanjhi Art, emerged as a popular 'stop' with the visitors at the Crafts Mela.

Presented in the form of wall hangings, Sanjhi Art practitioner, Vijay Kumar Verma said that the art originates from Mathura, the home of the god Krishna. The handmade sheets are our canvas and the technique of the art lies in cutting the sheet."

Verma has been associated with the Mela since 1987 to display his unique art for which he received the Kala Mani award by the fair authourity. The final creations are presented in different sizes with prices ranging from Rs 200 to Rs 40,000, Verma said.

The Mela provides a rare opportunity to the Theme State to showcase its handicrafts, handlooms, performing arts, cuisine and its tourist potential to a vast cross-section of people. The mela will continue till February 15.