The Saras Mela at the International Gita Mahotsav (IGM) is a major cultural and commercial highlight of the entire festival, often inaugurated on the very first day. It is officially known as the Saras and Crafts Mela (or Shilp Mela) and serves as one of India’s largest celebrations of rural enterprise and traditional artistry.

This expansive fair is strategically located on the sacred banks of the Brahma Sarovar in Kurukshetra, transforming the perimeter of the tank into a massive, vibrant marketplace. It typically runs for the full duration of the Mahotsav, which, for 2025, was from November 15 to December 5.

The Saras component of the Mela is a crucial initiative supported by the Ministry of Rural Development, specifically designed to empower rural artisans, craftsmen, and members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs). It provides a direct, large-scale platform where thousands of artisans from across all states of India can showcase and sell their unique handmade products—ranging from intricate terracotta and bamboo crafts to traditional textiles, jewelry, and regional organic food products. This not only generates significant employment opportunities but also connects rural producers directly with urban and international customers, helping them earn a fair income and refine their business strategies.

Furthermore, the Mela acts as a miniature India, providing visitors with an immersive cultural experience through live folk performances, music, and dance from various states, alongside the stalls. Given the international nature of the IGM, the fair often includes a Foreign Craft Fair section, introducing global craftsmanship to the holy land. The overall spectacle is considered historic, as millions of tourists witness this grand confluence of national craftsmanship, spiritual pilgrimage, and cultural celebration on a single, mesmerizing platform.