New Delhi, Jan 27 (IANS): The Haryana government has decided to organise an 'International Saraswati Mahotsav' from Monday to showcase its rich cultural and rural heritage.

The government has sent invitations to envoys of several countries to participate in the event. About a dozen foreign guests have already given their consent for the event.

The annual festival from January 27 to 29 will honour the river Saraswati. A seminar will also be organised on river and water conservation.

Haryana government Additional Chief Secretary Dheera Khandelwal took stock of the preparations ahead of the start of the event.

The event will also showcase Haryana cuisine, a hut and a replica of an ancient well, giving a real feel of the state.

Khandelwal said that there will be no use of plastic at the event and the emphasis is on the use of eco-fiendly products.

The event is being held at Pihowa near Kurukshetra, which has been decorated like the bold town of Surajkund.

The festival will feature a craft fair by various departments of the government.

Apart from painting exibitions, chanting of shlokas, presentation of patriotic songs and cultural programs will also be held at the event.