Madhya Pradesh’s 50th Khajuraho festival: A spectacular showcase

Monday, February 12, 2024

Set against the historic backdrop of Madhya Pradesh’s temples, the Khajuraho Dance Festival is slated for February 20th to 26th, 2024. This event is a collaborative effort spearheaded by the Ustad Allauddin Khan Sangeet Evam Kala Academy, with the Directorate of Culture, Government of Madhya Pradesh, and the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board playing significant roles. The festival will showcase a plethora of classical Indian dance forms, encapsulating centuries of cultural heritage.

This edition will feature an impressive roster of performers, including the acclaimed Kathak artist Padmshri Ranjana Gauhar and her troupe, Bharatanatyam dynamo Arupa Gayatri Panda from Pune, the Odissi ensemble from New Delhi, and the CICD repertory group’s rendition of “Meera,” under the direction of Padmavibhushan Dr. Sonal Mansingh. Attendees can also expect to see performances in Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, Kathakali, and the exuberant Bhangra.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho, renowned for its architectural marvels, will serve as the dramatic setting for these performances, with its ancient carvings and celestial figures enhancing the ambiance.

A key highlight will be the Kathak Kumbh, a spectacular gathering of 2000 Kathak dancers aiming to set a world record on the festival’s opening day. Beyond dance, the festival will offer culinary delights, adventure activities, luxury camping in Jinna and Madla villages, interactive workshops, and guided tours of the temples.

Evenings at the festival will be lively with bustling bazaars, featuring the best of Madhya Pradesh’s handicrafts and cuisine, alongside the opportunity to immerse in local hospitality through charming homestays and hotels.

The Khajuraho Dance Festival is more than an event; it’s a vibrant celebration of India’s artistic traditions and an invitation to explore the enchanting world of Khajuraho.

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