Khajuraho Dance Festival - Experience the magic of Indian Cultural Dance Forms

The Khajuraho Dance Festival is one of the most iconic events in India that celebrates the country's rich cultural heritage through classical dance performances. This annually-organised week-long festival in Khajuraho attracts art and culture enthusiasts from all over the world.

The 49th edition of this cultural extravaganza was held from February 20 to 26, 2023, and showcased the best of Indian art and heritage. This year, renowned artistes performed various forms of Indian classical dances, mainly Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Odissi and Mohiniattam. 

The festival is held in the Western Group of the temple complex, which is famous for its beautiful sculptures and carvings, making the event even more appealing. The intricate stone sculptures and the stunning architecture of the temples create a magical ambience that set the perfect backdrop for the performances. 

Some of the notable performers this year included Prateesha Suresh, Himansee Katragadda, Kadamb, Gopika Verma, Pushpita Mishra and Arupa Lahiri, to name a few. These performers showcased unique style and grace in their performances, making it an unforgettable experience for those in attendance.

Apart from the performances, the festival also included workshops and seminars where visitors explored the various classical dance forms and their history. 

Nepathya: an exhibition based on the cultural scenario of the Indian classical dance forms and the art journey of kathakali

Art-Mart: exhibiting art forms from across India and other countries

Choreo-lab: a workshop by dance artistes from India and five other countries

Kala-Vata: a discussion session of artistes and art experts

Pranati: a solo exhibition on artistic creations of senior painter Shubha Vaidya

Hunar: an exhibition on indigenous knowledge and traditions

Samashti: a national exhibition on terracotta and ceramic art 

Visitors also indulged in the local cuisine and soaked in the local culture of Madhya Pradesh. 

This year, the festival was made even more special with the participation of G20 delegates, who were in Khajuraho to attend the first Culture Working Group (CWG) meeting (from February 22-25). The delegates attended the prestigious dance festival and were mesmerised by the beautiful performances of renowned artists held in the backdrop of the magnificent Khajuraho temples. 

If you too are an art lover, are keen to witness the grand temples of Khajuraho and witness enthralling performances, make sure to plan your trip in advance for the next Khajuraho Dance Festival. The event is organised in the month of February, from 20th to 26th, every year. You can book your stay at one of the many hotels and resorts in the area or opt for a homestay experience to get a taste of the local culture. 

Things to do in and around Khajuraho

Western Group of Temples

This is a must-visit site for anyone interested in ancient Indian architecture and art. The Western Group includes the temples of Lakshmana, Matangeshwara, Kandariya Mahadev, Chitragupta, Parvati, Vishwanatha and Nandi, all adorned with breathtaking sculptures of gods, goddesses and mythological creatures. 

Adivart Tribal and Folk Art Museum

The recently inaugurated Adivart Tribal and Folk Art Museum showcases the lifestyle, art and craft of seven major tribes of the state - Gond, Baiga, Bhil, Bharia, Korku, Kol and Saharia. The cultural village is divided into five zones, each displaying the traditional houses and life-useful items that are unique to each tribe.

Raneh Falls

Nestled amidst rocky terrains, just 20 km from Khajuraho is the majestic Raneh waterfall. The waterfall is unique as it flows through a canyon of pure crystalline granite, creating a stunning visual display of varying shades of pink, red and grey. 

Panna National Park

Located in the Vindhya Ranges, Panna National Park is just an hour's drive from Khajuraho. This national park offers a chance to spot a variety of bird species. A paradise for wildlife lovers, Panna National Park is also home to tigers, leopards, deers, antelopes and many more. 

Pandav Falls

 Just 34 km from Khajuraho bus stop, this waterfall is on the route that runs through Khajuraho and Panna. Cascading from a height of 30 m, this fall is surrounded by lush green forest. It is also believed that the caves mentioned in the epic Mahabharata are situated at the base of this waterfall. 

Bhimkund

Located at a distance of 95 km from Khajuraho, Bhimkund is a natural blue water tank inside a cave which dates back to the era of the Mahabharata. The roof of the cave has a small opening just above the kund, believed to be the place where Bhim from the epic Mahabharata, had hit his gada to quench Draupadi's thirst.

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