Foreign artisans showcasing their traditions at Surajkund
PTI | 04:02 PM,Feb 07,2012Chandigarh, Feb 7 (PTI) The ongoing crafts fair at Surajkund near Faridabad in Haryana has set a spectacular stage for artisans from many foreign countries to showcase their rich traditions and customs. A number of SAARC countries, including Congo are participating in this fair. Giving this information here today, an official spokesperson said that the artisans from Congo were adding an African flavour to the Mela and had displayed a wide variety of tribal craft. The visitors could actually see these crafts persons designing masks, sculptures and other artifacts. Situated at the back of the "Choupal" within the premises of the fair, this stall is being largely visited by dignitaries and foreign tourists. The Congo stall also has on display specimens of some of the traditional arts and customs of that country which are on the verge of extinction. Therefore, a stop-over at this stall has become a must for the visitors. Interacting with the Chief of the Congo group, Phaso, the spokesman said that a statue highly revered and representing the 'Kiwa' culture of their country was on display at the stall. Known as 'Jitinga', he said that it was the harbinger of peace, strength, hospitality and cultural heritage. It was also helpful in warding off troubles. Detailing the specimens of masks and statues, the spokesman said that the statues were from the Bunda culture, masks for men were of the Leega culture, designs made on jute strips were representing the Tatila culture and some other items were of the Chokme culture. Phaso further informed that these cultures were very much alive and were a part of the lives of the people of Congo even today.
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