Witness the legacy of Indian dance fests: Leading events that showcase the eclectic beauty of our country

Mark your calendars for these amazing dance festivals, happening in a city near you.

Modhera Dance Festival

When: Jan 20, 2020

Where: Modhera, Gujarat

The Sun Temple of Modhera is a masterpiece of the Golden Age of the Solanki Empire. In order to bring forth the splendour of that era, the temple plays host to the annual Modhera Dance Festival, known as the Uttarardh Mahotsavor Modhera Utsavis, the fest showcases traditional dance forms of the region as well as acts as a platform to showcase the cultural ethos of our country through other arts.

Natyanjali Dance Festival

When: Feb 21–28, 2020
Where: Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu

The five-day Natyanjali Dance Festival is a dedication to the universal dancer—Shiva or Nataraja. The festival begins on the Maha Shivaratri and is held in the premise of Nataraja Temple. The magnificent temple, built thousands of years ago as a dedication to the Lord Nataraja, boasts of a perfect setting with a gilded roof, pillars that add splendour and Lord Shiva in the 108 poses or mudras of Bharatnatyam—the classical dance of Tamil Nadu.

Purandaradasa Aradhana

When: To be announced
Where: Hampi

Purandaradasa Aradhana is a classical music fest, held every year to commemorate the birth of the ancient poet Purandaradasa who lived in Hampi. The two to three day long program is scheduled during the months of January or February. Purandaradasa Aradhana is a feast for the classical music enthusiasts. The Purandaradasa Mantapa, located near the Vittala Temple, serves as a backdrop for the fest along with other prestigious venues.

Artistes of national and international repute (both vocalists and dancers), local artistes, dramatists are invited to pay a musical tribute to the saint-poet. The fest fuses culture to heighten the historic landscape of Hampi.

Mamallapuram Dance Festival

When: Dec 25, 2019 – Jan 15, 2020
Where: Mahabalipuram

Mamallapuram Dance Festival, hosted in the town of Mahabalipuram, is staged along a stone sculpture range known as the ‘Arjuna’s Penance rock sculpture.’ Well-known dancers from across the country come to present mesmerising performances, depicting the tales of Mahabharat. The festival is rendered unique as it not only showcases the traditional Indian dance performances but also some rare folk dance form such as Karagam, Kavadi, Silambattam and Kokkali Attam.