Gurgaon: National SARAS Aajeevika Mela 2026, which began on Feb 10 and ends on Feb 26, brought together artisans, performers and visitors from across the country at the city’s Leisure Valley Park. The annual event features handicrafts, regional cuisines and a series of evening cultural programmes highlighting folk, classical and contemporary traditions.On Feb 14, Sufi-pop singer Shibani Kashyap, known for her song Ho Gayi Hai Mohabbat, will perform from 6.30pm to 8pm. Arunachal Pradesh’s artist Jeli Kayi Tamin will present a folk fusion performance on the next day. He is known for singing in both male and female voices. On Feb 16, Vusat Iqbal Khan of the Dilli Gharana will lead a Sufi music evening. His performance will combine classical and contemporary styles.Traditional dance forms will be presented on Feb 19 from 5pm to 6pm, featuring Bihu and Sattriya from Assam. Punjabi singer Karan Randhawa will perform on Feb 20 and Jasmine Kaur on Feb 21. On Feb 23, Gaurav Maharashtracha will present traditional art forms of Maharashtra, including Powada and Lavani, from 5pm to 6pm.The cultural programme will conclude on Feb 24 with a Bharatanatyam recital along with folk dances from Tamil Nadu, scheduled from 5pm to 6pm.More than 900 women entrepreneurs from self-help groups representing 28 states have set up over 450 stalls at the mela. Products on sale include Pashmina from Kashmir, embroidery from Rajasthan, bamboo craft from Assam and silk from Tamil Nadu. Traditional dishes from 27 states are also available at the mela.
