The world-renowned dance festival began in Khajuraho with an aim to promote cultural and traditional dances of the country. The 40th annual festival kicked off on Thursday and will conclude on February 26.
Dancers performed old and traditional Indian dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Odissi, attempting to keep the dances alive as part of our heritage.
They described their experience of performing in Khajuraho, a place famous for its temple sculptures and paintings, as “holy.”
“Khajuraho is special because, one, it is a historical place. Also, according to the Archaeological Survey of India, it is very old. And this is a temple; earlier dances used to be performed only in temples. When we perform in the land of temples, we have the same religious feelings to serve,” said Bharatanatyam dancer Geeta Chandran.
Many classical artists were honoured at the festival and young dancers got a platform to showcase their talent. The event saw the presence of many leaders, including Madhya Pradesh Culture and Tourism Minister, Surendra Patwa.
Tourists from other countries also made it to the festival to view and participate in it. “I felt really nice to see the way the festival brings out the spiritual traditions,” said a foreign tourist, Julia.
The week-long event will see classical dancers perform various dance styles.
