*Surajkund Diwali Mela to Begin on October 23; Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to Inaugurate Third Edition*

*Four-day fair to showcase India's art, culture and handicrafts, with 300 stalls offering special Diwali shopping opportunities*

*Union Minister Sh. Manohar Lal to grace the closing ceremony on October 26; Sufi singer Kanwar Grewal to be a major attraction*

*Preserving cultural heritage, promoting local artisans and boosting tourism remain government's priority: Dr. Arvind Sharma*

Chandigarh, October 20: The Surajkund Mela Grounds in Faridabad are all set to come alive with festive colours once again, showcasing Haryana's rich cultural heritage, folk traditions and traditional handicrafts. The third Surajkund Diwali Mela will be held from October 23 to 26 and will be inaugurated by Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini. State Heritage and Tourism Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma will be specially present on the occasion, while Union Minister Sh. Manohar Lal will attend the closing ceremony on October 26 as the Chief Guest.

The four-day fair will offer an attractive blend of Diwali festivities, Indian art and culture, handicrafts, folk music, traditional cuisine and family entertainment. Around 300 stalls will showcase the talent of artisans and craftsmen from across the country, while providing visitors with a special festive shopping experience. The Haryana Tourism Department is putting the final touches to the preparations for the event.

Heritage and Tourism Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma said that the Surajkund Diwali Fair is not merely an event for shopping and entertainment; it is also an important platform to celebrate India's cultural diversity, traditional arts and craft traditions passed down through generations. The event will provide local artisans and craftsmen with an opportunity to showcase their skills, sell their products directly to customers and connect with new markets.

He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, efforts to give the country's cultural heritage global recognition are being taken forward by the Haryana Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini. The state government is committed to preserving historical heritage, promoting folk culture and expanding tourism activities. Events such as the Surajkund Diwali Fair translate this vision into action while further strengthening Haryana's cultural identity.

Dr. Sharma said that the Surajkund Mela Grounds have long served as an important centre for promoting Haryana's art and handicrafts at the national and international levels. Through the Diwali Fair, the government is working to carry this tradition forward and connect more people with the state's rich cultural heritage.

*Indian Artisans to Showcase Their Skills at 300 Stalls*

Around 300 stalls at the fair will offer a wide variety of handicrafts, handloom products, traditional artefacts, home décor items and products specially suited for Diwali. Visitors will be able to explore and purchase traditional art and craft products from different regions of the country at a single venue.

Dr. Arvind Sharma said that handicrafts are not only an integral part of India's cultural identity but also a source of livelihood for millions of people. Such events provide artisans with opportunities to display and sell their creations. This helps preserve traditional skills, connect the younger generation with these crafts and boost local economic activities.

*Sufi Singer Kanwar Grewal to Enliven the Cultural Evening*

Cultural programmes will be one of the major attractions of the Surajkund Diwali Fair. A performance by renowned Sufi and folk singer Kanwar Grewal will make the cultural evening memorable. In addition, performances by folk artists and traditional dance groups will bring alive the diverse colours of Indian folk culture.

Dr. Sharma said that folk songs, folk dances and traditional music are the soul of India's cultural heritage. They help pass traditions from one generation to the next. The cultural performances at the Surajkund Diwali Fair will offer visitors not only entertainment but also an opportunity to experience the diversity of Indian folk life up close.

*Food Court to Offer a Variety of Culinary Delights*

Alongside shopping and cultural programmes, special arrangements will be made for food and refreshments at the fair. The spacious food court will offer traditional delicacies from different regions, along with popular dishes from well-known food brands. This will allow families and tourists to enjoy shopping, music, entertainment and delicious food at one venue.

The event is being planned to ensure that children, young people, senior citizens and families can all enjoy the festive atmosphere ahead of Diwali.

*Boost to Tourism, Employment and the Local Economy*

The Heritage and Tourism Minister said that the Haryana Government is working to expand tourism beyond conventional sightseeing by linking it with cultural heritage, local art, handicrafts and employment opportunities. The Surajkund Diwali Fair is significant in this regard, as it will enable artisans, performers, small business owners and people associated with the tourism sector to expand their activities.

He said that such events not only strengthen the state's cultural identity but also stimulate the local economy. The government's objective is to bring Haryana's historical heritage, folk traditions and cultural distinctiveness to a wider audience across India and the world.

*Union Minister Sh. Manohar Lal to Attend Closing Ceremony on October 26*

The third Surajkund Diwali Mela will commence on October 23 and conclude on October 26. Union Minister Sh. Manohar Lal will grace the closing ceremony. Over the four days, handicraft exhibitions, folk art, music, cultural performances and traditional cuisine will offer visitors a memorable experience ahead of Diwali.

The Haryana Government and the Tourism Department have appealed to people from Delhi-NCR, Haryana and neighbouring states to visit Surajkund with their families and become part of this cultural celebration.

Dr. Arvind Sharma said that the Surajkund Diwali Fair is an opportunity to celebrate India's cultural diversity, recognise the talent of local artisans and share the joy of the festive season. He urged people to visit the fair in large numbers and support Indian art, culture and traditional handicrafts.

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*Maharaja Shoorsaini Was a Great Warrior, Able Administrator and Just Ruler: CM Nayab Singh Saini*

*Chief Minister Inaugurates Magnificent Statue of Maharaja Shoorsaini Ji*

*Statue Constructed by the Urban Local Bodies Department at a Cost of Rs. 98 Lakh*

Chandigarh, October 20: Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Maharaja Shoorsaini Ji was a great warrior, an able administrator and a just ruler. During his reign, he undertook numerous initiatives for the welfare of his subjects and set an example of good governance. His life inspires us to uphold the values of truth, justice, valour and public service. The state government is continuously working to preserve the legacy of great personalities and saints and pass it on to future generations. Statues, memorials and buildings dedicated to these eminent personalities are being constructed across the state.

On Tuesday, Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini formally inaugurated the magnificent statue of Maharaja Shoorsaini Ji, the pride of the Saini community and a great emperor, installed along the Kurukshetra-Yamunanagar road in Ladwa town. The statue has been constructed by the Haryana Urban Local Bodies Department at a cost of approximately Rs. 98 lakh.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the statue of Maharaja Shoorsaini Ji had given Ladwa a new identity as a place of historical and cultural significance. The statue site has been developed into an attractive park, complete with decorative lighting and beautification works, and is set to become one of the town's major attractions. The statue of Maharaja Shoorsaini Ji installed in Ladwa will inspire the youth to follow his ideals.

He said that the Saini community had always played a significant role in the development of the country and the state. Members of the community are hardworking, honest and patriotic. The state government is committed to the welfare of every section of society, guided by the principle of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas (Together with All, Development for All, Trust of All).

The Chief Minister said that no stone would be left unturned in ensuring the development of the Ladwa region. The government is implementing development schemes worth crores of rupees in Ladwa. Continuous improvements are being made in roads, sanitation, drinking water supply, education and healthcare. The construction of the statue has not only enhanced the beauty of the town but will also promote tourism in the area.

He said that the statue, built at a cost of Rs. 98 lakh, was not merely a sculpture but a symbol of the state's culture, history and pride. He congratulated the officials of Ladwa Municipal Committee and the Urban Local Bodies Department for completing the work in an attractive and timely manner.

He further said that Maharaja Shoorsaini Chowk had been developed by the Municipal Committee as a model intersection. Special attention has been paid to safety, beautification, lighting and traffic management at the site.

Deputy Commissioner Vishram Kumar Meena, Chairman Gurnam Saini, Ladwa Municipal Committee Chairperson Sakshi Khurana, Chairman Dr. Ganesh Dutt, councillors, representatives of social organisations and a large number of prominent citizens were present on the occasion.

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*Government is Establishing 'Ram Rajya' in Haryana by Caring for the Poor, Honouring Farmers, Providing Opportunities to Youth, Ensuring Women's Safety and Supporting the Elderly: CM Nayab Singh Saini*

*Chief Minister Calls Upon People to Follow the Path of Truth, Righteousness and Justice at Vijay Dashami Celebration in Ladwa*

*Chief Minister Announces Financial Assistance of Rs. 11 Lakh for Jai Bharat Kala Manch, Ladwa*

Chandigarh, October 20: Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the essence of Ram Rajya in governance lies in caring for the poor, ensuring respect for farmers, providing opportunities to the youth, ensuring the safety and empowerment of women, and extending support to the elderly. Guided by this approach, the benefits of government schemes are being delivered to the last person standing in the social hierarchy. The government is working in accordance with the spirit of Ram Rajya by ensuring equal opportunities and dignity for every citizen.

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini attended the Vijay Dashami celebration organised by Jai Bharat Kala Manch, Ladwa, on Tuesday.

The Chief Minister performed the aarti of Lord Sri Ram and prayed for the happiness and prosperity of the people of Haryana. He announced financial assistance of Rs. 11 lakh for Jai Bharat Kala Manch, Ladwa, and flagged off the procession.

He extended his heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the people of the state on the occasion of Vijay Dashami.

Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi is committed to building a Viksit Bharat. The Haryana Government is also moving forward at a rapid pace with the resolve to build a Viksit Haryana.

He said that Vijay Dashami symbolises the victory of good over evil, justice over injustice, and truth over falsehood. The festival reinforces our faith that although the path of truth may be difficult, truth, righteousness and justice always prevail in the end.

He said that Vijay Dashami is a celebration of India's eternal cultural and spiritual consciousness. It symbolises the harmonious blend of devotion and strength. By defeating Ravana, Lord Sri Ram liberated society from injustice and fear, while Maa Durga established righteousness by defeating Mahishasura. These episodes teach us that the purpose of strength is not arrogance, but the protection of the weak and the elimination of injustice.

He said that Lord Sri Ram is revered as Maryada Purushottam because He upheld the dignity of every relationship throughout His life. His victory over Ravana was not merely a victory achieved through bow and arrow, but a triumph of truth, self-restraint, service, kindness, compassion and moral conduct.

Lord Sri Ram conveyed the message of social harmony by bringing together people from every section of society, including Nishadraj, Mata Shabari, Kevat, forest-dwelling communities and the Vanara Sena. This, he said, is the very essence of Ram Rajya.

The Chief Minister said that while burning the effigies of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhakarna on Vijay Dashami, people should also resolve to eliminate the evils within themselves. Merely burning effigies does not fulfil our responsibility. The festival will be truly meaningful only when we make sincere efforts to overcome arrogance, anger, greed, jealousy, deceit, hypocrisy and selfishness within ourselves.

Appreciating the office-bearers of Jai Bharat Kala Manch, Ladwa, the artists, the organising team and all those associated with the event, he said that they were performing an important role in connecting the younger generation with Indian culture, values and ideals.

He appealed to the people of Haryana to embrace truth, service, good conduct and patriotism in their lives and contribute towards building a society where strength is accompanied by compassion, prosperity by sensitivity, and rights are given due importance alongside duties.

Deputy Commissioner Vishram Kumar Meena, Superintendent of Police Chander Mohan, Chairman Gurnam Saini, Ladwa Municipal Committee Chairperson Sakshi Khurana, Market Committee Chairman Dr. Ganesh Dutt, Jai Bharat Kala Manch, Ladwa, President Ashwini Sharma, councillors, representatives of social organisations and a large number of distinguished citizens were present on the occasion.

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Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini redressing the grievances of the people

CHANDIGARH, 20.10.26-Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini redressing the grievances of the people at his residence Sant Kabir Kutir in Chandigarh on October 20, 2026.