Chandigarh | November 22,2024-India’s culture is a vibrant tapestry of colors, each unique in its essence. Bringing this diversity under one roof, the 14th Chandigarh National Craft Mela is set to take place from November 29 to December 8 at Kalagram, jointly organized by the North Zone Cultural Centre and Chandigarh’s Department of Art and Culture.
The fair will feature not just Punjabi icons but also celebrated singers from Kashmir, Dogri, Himachal, and Uttarakhand. This year, the theme is “Colors of India,” and artisans from Bengal are crafting the decorations for the event.
Visitors can enjoy the fair daily from 11 AM to 9:30 PM, with performances and exhibitions throughout the day. Morning sessions will include activities for schoolchildren, folk performances by artists from across India, and engaging quizzes for the young ones.
A Hub of Crafts and Culture
Artisans from 24 states will showcase and sell their handmade products, including national award-winning craftsmen and recipients of the Kabir Award. A special attraction will be 20 heritage-style stalls, where artisans will demonstrate their skills live, offering a closer look at India’s rich craftsmanship.
Art and culture enthusiasts from Chandigarh and nearby regions eagerly anticipate this annual celebration, which offers a rare chance to witness and experience the diverse art, craft, and cultural heritage of the country.
Daily Performances by Renowned Artists
Over 10 days, the fair will feature daily folk performances and mesmerizing musical evenings. Headlining the event are Padma Shri awardees Suresh Wadkar and Padma Wadkar, alongside other prominent artists like Harbhajan Singh, Kanwar Grewal, Feroz Khan, Gulzar Ganai from Kashmir, Chaman Lehri from Jammu, Geeta Bharadwaj and Kaku Ram Thakur from Himachal Pradesh, and Inder Arya from Uttarakhand. Several other renowned names are expected to join, with announcements pending final confirmations.
Activities for the Youth
To engage younger audiences, the fair will host a photography competition organized by Lalit Kala Akademi. Winning entries will be rewarded every other day, and a large number of participants are expected, given the popularity of this event in previous years.
A Feast for Food Lovers
No mela is complete without food, and this one will not disappoint! Food stalls from across India will serve authentic delicacies, offering visitors a taste of the culinary diversity that each state proudly represents. Families, friends, and art enthusiasts can relish these flavors while soaking in the artistic ambiance and carrying home cherished memories of this cultural extravaganza.
The 14th Chandigarh National Craft Mela promises an unforgettable experience, blending art, culture, music, and cuisine from all corners of the country. Don’t miss it!