Grand Inauguration of the SARAS Mela at Sheesh Mahal
Kanwar Inder singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ February 14,2025
The Regional Saras Mela 2025 commenced with great enthusiasm at the historic Sheesh Mahal in Patiala.
The event was inaugurated by Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond. He emphasized that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab is establishing itself as a major tourism hub by organizing such grand festivals.
The mela features artisans from Turkey, Thailand, Egypt, Afghanistan, and 20 Indian states, showcasing their handicrafts, textiles, and traditional artworks. Various cultural performances, including folk dances and music from Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and other regions, captivated the audience. Additionally, Punjabi folk performances, including Bajigar, Jogis’ Been, Kachhi Ghodi, and Nati, added to the vibrancy of the event.
One of the key attractions of the mela is the selfie points, which have become popular among visitors of all age groups. The mela also offers a wide variety of food stalls, serving Punjabi, Gujarati, Rajasthani, South Indian, and international cuisines, attracting food lovers.
Deputy Commissioner Dr. Preeti Yadav extended a warm welcome to the attendees and urged locals to participate actively in both the Patiala Heritage Festival and the Saras Mela. ADC Anuprita Johal, the mela’s nodal officer, assured that arrangements for artisans, performers, and visitors have been meticulously planned.
Over 150 stalls have been set up, offering handicrafts, Phulkari embroidery, wooden furniture, iron and bamboo artifacts, pottery, pickles, and traditional sweets. The mela also includes entertainment zones for children, featuring rides, swings, and toys.
The event, which runs until February 23, is expected to draw large crowds. The North Zone Cultural Center, in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Culture and the Punjab Department of Cultural Affairs, has played a significant role in organizing the festival.
On the occasion MLA Ajitpal Singh Kohli, Mayor Kundan Gogiya, Senior Deputy Mayor Harinder Kohli, Deputy Mayor Jagdeep Singh Rai, District Planning Committee Chairman Jassi Sohi, Renowned Punjabi actor Binnu Dhillon, Megh Chand Shermajra, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Preeti Yadav, SSP Dr. Nanak Singh, ADC Anuprita Johal also present. Assistant Commissioner Richa Goel
The Saras Mela 2025 has successfully emerged as a major cultural and commercial hub, providing artisans a platform to showcase their work and attracting visitors with its vibrant atmosphere, shopping opportunities, and entertainment.
