The 38th Surajkund International Craft Mela is offering visitors a unique experience of art and culture along with craftsmanship from India and abroad. With Odisha and Madhya Pradesh as the theme states, the Mela is also showcasing the vibrant cultures of BIMSTEC organisation. There is a lot of hustle-bustle in the BIMSTEC Pavilion drawing large international tourists attention.
Notably, located behind the Chaupal area, the International Pavilion is one of the highlights of this year’s Crafts Mela. BIMSTEC member countries, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, Ghana, and Afghanistan have been chosen as partner Countries. Besides this, around 51 other countries are also participating, with over 30 international stalls showcasing their traditional crafts and cultural heritage.
Tunisian artists showcasing their art of wood carving
The Mela is not only attracting tourists for Indian artisans but also international craftsmen providing them with a platform to show their unique skills. The BIMSTEC Pavilion features stalls from various countries, each offering a glimpse into their cultural traditions. One of the most popular stalls is FC-43, where Tunisian artisans are displaying beautifully crafted items made from olive wood.
A Tunisian craftsman shared that they have brought a wide range of handcrafted decorative items made from olive wood, which takes anywhere from two to four days to create, including swings, coffee and tea sets, chairs, flower pots, clocks, and corner stools. The intricate carvings on these handmade items are drawing large crowds, with visitors eagerly admiring and also purchasing these pieces.