Khajuraho Dance Festival

The event is organized by the Department of Culture and assisted by Madhya Pradesh Tourism. The stone sculptures of the temple in the background, the open sky above, the art connoisseurs coming from India and abroad and the unforgettable presentation of the artists practicing Shiva's meditation on the stage set up in the middle. A similar scene occurs when it comes to Khajuraho Dance Festival. This joyous festival dedicated to the dignity and classicism of dance has entered its 52th year. Khajuraho Dance Festival was started in the year 1975 and since then it has been successfully organized continuously by the Ustad Alauddin Khan Music and Art Academy under the Culture Department of Madhya Pradesh Government. The form of art in India is like a traditional culture which flourishes through rigorous practice and not only expresses the artist's self but also describes the contemporary cultural scenario. In our culture, dance is not just a picturesque presentation but a meaningful effort that realizes the deep thoughts of the artist. The purpose of starting the Khajuraho dance festival was not only to preserve the classical dance but also to convey through classical dance the message which enables art lovers to experience the zenith of art through dance. From then till today this dance festival is being organized in the courtyard of the famous temples of Khajuraho. So far, young and senior artists of all the major classical dance styles of India like Bharatnatyam, Odissi, Kathak, Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, Yakshagana, Manipuri etc. have spread the aura of their art in the Khajuraho Dance Festival. Through the ceremony, an effort has been made to bring innovation while maintaining the dignity of classical dance. The festival is not limited to just dance presentation but also provides an opportunity to openly discuss and think about various aspects of dance and other arts. Other activities organized under the festival like Art Mart, Hunar, Nepathya, Kalavarta etc. also provide an opportunity to openly consider other aspects of art. For any art lover, the Khajuraho dance festival is such a spectacle that can answer every creative ebb and flow within him.