Harmony & Heritage: Must-See Cultural Festivals Across India
The cultural festivals remind us of the value of being true to one’s roots while welcoming the universal spirit that breaks down barriers and brings people together with happiness and harmony. These festivals showcase the rich heritage of our country through dance, music, art, food, and various cultural celebrations.
Saras Mela
Saras Aajeevika Mela, or Saras Fair, is an annual cultural exhibition held in India. This colourful fair exhibits rural life’s culture, traditions, and creative aspects. ‘Saras’ is the abbreviation of Goddess Saraswati, the god of creativity and wisdom.
The fourth edition of this cultural festival will be celebrated from February 16 to March 4 at Noida Sector 33A. Artisans from all parts of India will participate in this fair to display diverse creative activities, including folk dances, songs, culinary experiments, and art-craft exhibitions. Over 200 stalls will showcase a unique aspect of their cultural history by selling food, paintings, handicrafts, and handlooms.
Khajuraho Dance Festival
The venue of the world-famous Khajuraho Dance Festival is all set to celebrate the golden jubilee year with the spectacular performances of classical dancers from all over the country. Since 1975, the beautiful backdrops of Khajuraho have witnessed mesmerizing performances from eminent and emerging dancers.
Participants in the festival can learn more about the intricacies of Indian classical dance and music through the interactive lectures, displays, and workshops that complement the performances. The stunning Khajuraho temples are another must-see for art lovers; within, they will find elaborate carvings representing mythology, spirituality, and other elements of daily life.
Every year, the Khajuraho festival is organized by the Madhya Pradesh Cultural Department and the Tourism and Archaeology Department. The 50th annual KDF is scheduled for February 20 – 26 this year.
Jaisalmer Desert Festival
Showcasing the vibrancy of the iconic Indian state of Rajasthan, the Jaisalmer Desert Festival will commence from February 22 to 24 amidst the beautiful Thar desert and Sam dunes. The Jaisalmer Desert Festival is an ode to the vibrant culture and distinctive lifestyle of the region’s inhabitants. This cultural event in Rajasthan showcases the state’s abundant heritage through art exhibitions, concerts, dance performances, displays of food, etc.
The festival organizes a unique range of competitions like camel polo marches, turban tying competitions, folk dances, ghoomar dances, moustache competitions, drills performed by the Indian Air Force, etc. Entertainment activities like jeep safari, camel safari etc will be arranged for visitors.
Taj Mahotsav
Taj Mahotsav, the festival that honours Shahjahan and Mumtaz Mahal’s eternal love, will be held in Agra from February 18 to 27. This 10-day cultural festival showcases the talents of artists from all over India. Be mesmerized by the vibrant shows, lively dance performances, soulful music concerts, and exquisite craft exhibitions in the proximity of the beautiful Taj Mahal.
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