Hunar Haat Chandigarh is an exceptional event that showcases India’s rich cultural and artistic diversity. Organized by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, this event provides a platform for artisans and craftsmen from across the country to display and sell their handcrafted products. Held at the Parade Ground in Sector 17, Chandigarh, Hunar Haat is a vibrant celebration of traditional arts, crafts, and culinary delights.
Hunar Haat takes place at the Parade Ground in Sector 17, Chandigarh. The event is conveniently located in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike. The timings for the event are generally from 11 AM to 10 PM, allowing visitors ample time to explore the various stalls and enjoy the cultural performances.
1. Handicrafts and Artifacts: Hunar Haat is a treasure trove of traditional handicrafts and artifacts. Artisans from states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, Nagaland, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Goa, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Ladakh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Haryana, Jammu & Kashmir, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala bring their unique creations to the event. Items on display include wooden crafts, brass products, bamboo items, glass art, fabric creations, paper crafts, and clay items (Chandigarh Life (CHDLIFE)) (Outlook India).
2. Culinary Delights: One of the highlights of Hunar Haat is the “Bawarchikhana,” a section dedicated to traditional food from different parts of India. Visitors can savor a variety of regional delicacies, giving them a chance to taste the diverse flavors of the country under one roof (Chandigarh Life (CHDLIFE)).
3. Cultural Performances: Every evening, Hunar Haat features cultural and musical performances by renowned artists. These performances add a festive atmosphere to the event, allowing visitors to enjoy traditional music and dance forms from different regions of India. Some past performers include Bhupinder Singh Bhuppi, Rekha Raj, Ankita Pathak, Jasbir Jassi, Altaf Raja, Kavita Paudwal, Pankaj Udhas, and the Nooran Sisters (Chandigarh Life (CHDLIFE)) (Outlook India).
4. Vishwakarma Vatika: This special section showcases live demonstrations of traditional crafts. Artisans demonstrate the process of creating their handmade products, providing visitors with an insightful look into the craftsmanship involved in these traditional arts (Chandigarh Life (CHDLIFE)).
5. Virtual and Online Platforms: For those unable to visit the event in person, Hunar Haat offers virtual and online platforms where visitors can view and purchase products. This ensures that the artisans’ work reaches a global audience, expanding their market beyond the physical event.
Hunar Haat was first organized in 2016 under the “Ustaad” scheme by the Ministry of Minority Affairs. The primary aim of this initiative is to promote and preserve the traditional arts and crafts of India, which are often passed down through generations. Over the years, Hunar Haat has grown significantly, providing economic opportunities to more than 850,000 artisans and craftsmen, with over 50% of these beneficiaries being women.
The event has been held in various cities across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, and Bhopal, among others. Each edition of Hunar Haat not only helps in promoting indigenous crafts but also strengthens the cultural fabric of the nation by bringing together diverse traditions and art forms.
Following its success in Chandigarh, Hunar Haat is scheduled to be held in several other cities, including Pune, Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Patna, Chennai, Agra, Prayagraj, Goa, Jaipur, Bengaluru, Kota, Sikkim, Srinagar, Leh, Shillong, Ranchi, and Agartala. These events continue to provide a platform for artisans to showcase their work and connect with a broader audience.
Hunar Haat Chandigarh is more than just an exhibition; it is a celebration of India’s rich cultural heritage and an acknowledgment of the skills and creativity of its artisans. By providing a platform for these talented individuals, Hunar Haat plays a crucial role in preserving traditional crafts and promoting cultural diversity. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking to experience the vibrant culture of India, Hunar Haat is an event that promises an unforgettable experience.