India boasts of a thriving arts and crafts festival culture. As winter gives way to spring, February sees people throng three such iconic cultural carnivals across different cities to immerse in regional creativity and talents.
Surajkund International Crafts Mela, Faridabad
Celebrated During: 2nd to 18th February 2024
Main Attractions: Colourful showcase of domestic and international handicraft traditions
A splash of hues, rhythm of drumbeats and infectious energy – that’s the iconic Surajkund International Crafts Mela unfolding annually in Haryana. Blending heritage and artistry, it is the world’s largest handicraft fair.
2024 sees the honour going to [add the name of Theme State] as over 20 Indian states and nations host arts, fabrics, pottery, ornaments and more across allocated zones. Renowned artists perform at unique Chaupal theatres, spotlighting India’s cultural extravaganza to over a million tourists, including foreigners. Beyond exhibits, the Food Court, adventure section and amusement rides add entertainment value across ages.
Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, Mumbai
Celebrated During: 20th January to 28th January 2024
Key Highlights: Asia’s largest multidisciplinary arts festival
From visual arts, dance, music, theatre, and stand-up comedy to literature, the iconic Kala Ghoda Arts Festival celebrates creative diversity across 300 events and 25 venues. Themed ‘Udaan’, the 2024 edition promises high-energy participation from thousands of performers and art enthusiasts during the 9-day carnival organised by the Kala Ghoda Association.
Besides art installations, workshops, competitions, culinary sessions, and heritage walks, the event also offers cross-collaboration of traditional and contemporary arts across 14 verticals.
Taj Mahotsav, Agra
Celebrated During: 17th February to 27th February 2024
Key Highlights: Platform for artisans to exhibit indigenous arts and crafts
Drawing travellers to India’s most loved monument – The Taj Mahal – is the annual Taj Mahotsav hosted near the East Gate entrance over ten days. The colourful stage celebrates the creativity of master craftsmen from different states sculpting wood, stone, and marble and crafting carpets, pottery, or zardozi items on display.
Folk dances, classical music, regional cuisine stalls and fun carnival rides ensure families embrace India’s priceless heritage and culture encapsulated right outside the Taj Mahal’s imperial legacy.
To conclude…
From majestic monuments to vibrant streets, India’s eternal charm lies as much in spectacular landscapes as in the sheer diversity of its traditional arts spanning generations.
By attending festivals like Surajkund Mela or Taj Mahotsav, we champion the skills of artisans while discovering hidden gems showcasing India’s cultural wealth.
Beyond purchasing beautiful handicrafts, our collective support breathes fresh life into rare art forms, spurs revivals and induces future custodians to walk the path.
This February, let’s show solidarity towards all imaginative minds crafting the vibrant legacy of incredible India.