The 14th Craft Mela Kalagram 2024 is set to offer an exciting cultural experience from November 29 to December 8, 2024, at Kalagram, Manimajra, Chandigarh. Organized by the North Zone Cultural Centre, Patiala, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the UT Administration, this annual event is a must-visit for all culture, art, and food enthusiasts. It’s an opportunity to experience India’s rich heritage of handicrafts, folk music, dance, and traditional cuisines under one roof.
Event Overview: A 10-Day Celebration of Indian Culture
The 14th Chandigarh National Crafts Mela is more than just a crafts fair; it’s a celebration of India’s diversity through its handicrafts, folk arts, and regional food. The Mela will feature live performances by renowned artists, folk dances, and cultural exhibitions from across the country. The event aims to showcase national award-winning handicrafts and provide a platform for artisans to display their creations.
Event Details:
Event | Details |
Dates | 29th November – 8th December 2024 |
Venue | Kalagram, Manimajra, Chandigarh |
Organizers | North Zone Cultural Centre, Patiala, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, UT Administration Chandigarh |
Main Attractions | Handicrafts, Folk Dances, Live Performances, Food Stalls, Cultural Exhibitions, Craft Bazaar, Amusement Park, Theme-Based Gates and Stalls |
Purpose | To showcase India’s traditional handicrafts, handlooms, folk music, instruments, dances, and cuisines |
Artists & Performances Schedule:
The Mela will feature performances by famous artists from various regions, each bringing their unique style to the stage. From Punjabi to Kashmiri, Himachali to Hindi singers, the performances will provide a rich mix of music genres that reflect India’s diverse culture. Here’s the schedule for the performances:
Date | Artist(s) |
29 Nov 2024 | Kanwar Grewal (Punjabi Singer) |
30 Nov 2024 | Gurnam Bhullar (Punjabi Singer) |
1 Dec 2024 | Padma Shri Suresh Wadkar & Padma Wadkar (Classical Singers) |
2 Dec 2024 | Kulwinder Billa (Punjabi Singer) |
3 Dec 2024 | Geeta Bhardwaj (Folk Singer) |
3 Dec 2024 | Kaku Ram Thakur (Himachali Singer) |
4 Dec 2024 | Feroz Khan (Punjabi Singer) |
5 Dec 2024 | Inder Arya (Punjabi Singer) |
6 Dec 2024 | Chaman Lehri (Punjabi Singer) |
6 Dec 2024 | Gulzar Ahmad Ganaie (Kashmiri Singer) |
7 Dec 2024 | Harbhajan Maan (Punjabi Singer) |
8 Dec 2024 | Amit Kumar (Bollywood Playback Singer) |
Folk Dance Performances: A Spectacle of Indian Traditions
Apart from music, the Mela will feature a variety of folk dances from different states, including:
- Lavni from Maharashtra
- Badhai from Madhya Pradesh
- Panthi from Chhattisgarh
- Lambadi from Andhra Pradesh
- Gidha from Himachal Pradesh
- Phag/Ghoomer from Haryana
- Bhangra/Sammi from Punjab
- Chakri from Rajasthan
- Dogri from Jammu & Kashmir
- Kachi Ghodi from Rajasthan
In addition to these, ground performances like Bazigar (Punjab), Behrupiya (Rajasthan), and Stick Walker (Rajasthan) will also be showcased, adding a lively rhythm to the event.
What to Expect at the National Craft Mela Kalagram 2024
- Handicrafts and Handlooms: The Mela will feature a variety of handcrafted items from across India. National award-winning artisans will showcase their work, including textiles, jewelry, home décor, and much more.
- Traditional Food: Various food stalls will serve a wide range of traditional dishes, from Punjabi delicacies like Amritsari kulcha to Rajasthani dal baati, ensuring that visitors get a true taste of India’s regional flavors.
- Cultural Exhibitions: Apart from the live performances, there will be exhibitions of traditional folk instruments and regional crafts. Visitors can interact with artisans and learn about the art of crafting these beautiful products.
- Amusement Park & Stalls: The Mela will have an amusement park for families with children. There will also be theme-based gates and stalls that add to the festive atmosphere.
Purpose of the Mela
The National Crafts Mela plays a significant role in preserving and promoting India’s traditional crafts, folk arts, and regional cuisines. It aims to provide a platform for artisans and cultural performers from all over the country to showcase their skills, thereby supporting India’s indigenous art forms. The event also helps visitors explore the incredible diversity of India’s handicrafts, handlooms, and folk traditions in one place.
How to Reach the 14th National Crafts Mela
Kalagram, the venue of the Mela, is easily accessible from various parts of Chandigarh and surrounding areas. Here’s how you can get there:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Chandigarh International Airport, which is just 7 km from Kalagram.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Daria Railway Station, located 4 km away from the venue.
- By Road: The venue is easily accessible from Mohali (10 km away) and other parts of Chandigarh.
A Must-Visit Cultural Event
The Craft Mela Kalagram 2024 is an event that beautifully brings together India’s diverse cultural heritage through its crafts, music, and dance. With live performances by famous Punjabi singers, traditional folk dances, and regional cuisines, it offers something for everyone – from families looking for a day of fun to art enthusiasts seeking to explore the best of Indian craftsmanship.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the “Colors of India” in the heart of Chandigarh from November 29 to December 8, 2024, at Kalagram, Manimajra.