Hampi Utsava

Hampi, the jewel of Karnataka and the pride of India is an enduring ode to the grandeur of India’s heritage. The stones and boulders of Hampi have a million stories to tell, a million symphonies to enthral you and transport you into the grand era of the Vijayanagara Empire. There is no better time to savour the nuances of Hampi and bask in its exquisite art in stone than during the Hampi Utsava. The magnificent stone structures of Hampi erupt in a blaze of colour, dance, and music, every year during the much anticipated Hampi Utsava. The ruins of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi reverberate with the sounds of celebration as the Hampi Utsava also known as Vijaya Utsava takes centre stage. The Vijayanagara Kings, including the most famous of them all, Emperor Krishnadevaraya who ruled over what was then the largest empire in India, the Vijayanagara Empire, were great patrons of music, dance, arts, architecture and literature. Music and dance reached their zenith during the years of the Vijayanagara Empire and the many architectural marvels of Hampi are testimony to this. The intriguing musical pillars of Hampi’s Vijaya Vittala temple are just one example of the love of music being embedded in stone. The Hampi Utsava is a colourful cultural extravaganza that simulates the ethos and grandeur of the glorious Vijayanagara Empire. Organised annually by the Government of Karnataka, the festival is celebrated over 2 to 3 days with much pomp and gaiety. The festival is reminiscent of the grand Vasantotsava that was celebrated during the time of the Vijayanagara Empire. The festival was then a 9-day affair and showcased dance, music, and literature. The Hamp Utsava is an ode to the legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire. The ruins of Hampi standing silently by the side of the flowing waters of the Tungabhadra provides the perfect backdrop for the performances that ignite a billion sparks during the Hampi Utsava. The festival sees the main monuments that have stood the test of time being illuminated brilliantly in Hampi. Maestros of music, dance, and other performing arts mesmerise viewers with their magical performances. The Hampi Utsava is also a wonderful platform where the richness of the folk dances and folk music of Karnataka is showcased. A special segment of the festival is the Janapada Kalavahini which is an engaging medley of folk songs and folk dances. The Hampi Utsava is a carnival of sorts for connoisseurs of culture. An elephant procession called, “Jambu Savari,” brings alive the vibes of the golden era of the Vijayanagara Empire. The festival also is a great opportunity to get acquainted with local handicrafts as well as revel in the flavours and aromas of the local cuisine of Karnataka.