The unique cultural and historical heritage of Goa came alive at the 28th Surajkund International Crafts Mela with the Chief Minister of Haryana Bhupinder Singh Hooda inaugurating the 15 day mela.
The Haryana Chief Minister Hoodainaugurated the cultural extravaganza at a 'Choupal' in the mela ground by opening the symbolic window of Goa. Earlier, he cut a ribbon, specially created of coconut leaves at the huge (replica of the Viceroy Arch at Old Goa, which led to the Goa theme pavilion. The dignitaries also went around 'Casa Goa', a typical Goan house specially constructed for guests to get a feel of Goan life that most tourists never see. From the architecture to the costumes worn by the residing Goan couple, the furniture, household items and food, there were glimpses of the old customs that are still prevalent in many villages today. There was also a Food Court serving delicious Goan cuisine, beverages and snacks.
Chief Minister Hooda said that after the modest beginning in 1987, Surajkund has become an International Fair and the area has increased to over 40 acres. This year, 18 countries participated in the Mela, which attained the milestone of being an international event last year. He further complimented Goa as the theme state that has created an atmosphere at the Mela that literally transports you to the state and the Mela reflects India's civilization and culture and has contributed a lot in saving traditional arts and crafts.
The Dy. Chief Minister of Goa D'Souza commented, "We intended to make Goa come alive, to pop-out of the tourism brochures that people are accustomed to seeing and provide a comprehensive Goan experience at the Mela grounds." He further stated that the state has brought more than 50 of our best artisans to provide guests with an in-depth look at Goa’s rich traditional handicrafts and about 200 artists performing authentic Goan folk dances.
Goa as the theme state participated in a big way and the presence of Goa was vibrantly visible everywhere within the mela area. The mela entry gates have been put up with a uniform beach theme using symbolic design elements like sun, water-sports, shells, sea waves, palm trees, sails etc.
In addition, internal welcome entry gates to the performance stages have also been created depicting the themes of Goan cultural festivals of Carnival & Shigmo using symbolic designs like colourful masks, effigies of horses, Shigmo props, musical instruments, Goan architecture through churches, temples & houses etc. The general Goa décor at the Mela included painted azulejos tiles (tin-glazed ceramic tiles painted with traditional motifs) at various locales etc.
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