New nascent state of Telangana is the theme state of Internationally acclaimed Surajkund Crafts Mela -2016. This is an opportunity for Telangana state to show case its rich handicraft culture to the people of India as well as the international audience. Haryana Tourism Corporation informed the state government of its acceptance of Telangana to participate in the 30 th Surajkund International Crafts Mela -2016 as Theme State.

Surajkund Crafts Mela is held every year from February 1-15 at Surajkund, District Faridabad, Haryana. Occupying a place of pride on the International tourist calendar, more than 1.3 million visitors thronged the Mela last year during the fortnight including thousands of foreign tourists. The colorful Surajkund Crafts Mela is unique as it showcases intricate handicrafts, exquisite handlooms, heritage crafts and the rich cultural fabric of India.
At the same time, it affords an excellent opportunity to the finest craftsperson’s and wavers of India to display and sell their product directly without being fleeced by middlemen. The Mela is organized by the Surajkund Mela Authority which is headed by Secretary Tourism, Government of India. The Union Ministries of Tourism, Textiles, Culture and External Affairs are the collaborating Ministries which contribute in making the Mela a grand success. The Mela is hosted by Haryana Tourism and one of the States of India is given the honor to participate as the Theme State every year. This year Telangana theme will be the dominant feature of the Mela. the government has sanctioned Rs 1.50 crore to meet the expenditure for the participation in the Mela.

Having been chosen as Theme State, Telangana will get an opportunity to highlight the state in totality from its architecture to fine arts and crafts. It also provides a rare occasion for the artistes and craftsmen to showcase their talents, said an official from Telangana tourism department. Last, Chhattishgarh had been chosen as the theme state for the 29th Surajkund International Crafts Mela-2015