Taj Mahotsav: Culture Festivals in India

Agra is known all around the world for the white-marble beauty of the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. But, there is one more thing that attracts tourists to Agra- the Taj Mahotsav. An extravagant 10-day event, the Taj Mahotsav is an effervescent cultural platform that puts together the finest of arts, crafts and culture of the Mughal city of Agra as well as India.

Organized every year, Taj Mahotsav 2015 will begin from 18th February and will be on till 27th February. A much-awaited event, organized at Shilpgram, it includes a number of interesting events. You get see amazing artistry, crafts and culture on display at this event. Classical dance performances, poetry, folk music, various games, a food festival, camel and elephant rides etc are a part of this festival.

Here's more on popular things to do in Agra and how to reach Agra to enjoy the celebration of Taj Mahotsav around there.

Location: Shilpgram, Near the Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh (just 500-600 m from the Eastern Gate of the Taj Mahal)

Duration: 10 days

Taj Mahotsav 2015: 18th February to 27th February

Time of the year: February

Planned by: Department of Tourism, Government of India

Importance: Promotion of rich arts, crafts, culture, music, dance and cuisine of the state as well as the country

High-points: Folk music and dance performances, a procession taken out in the typical Mughal style, a food festival and even more

Theme Taj Mahotsav 2015- Paigham-E-Mohabbat

Entry Fee

For Adult: INR 50/-

Children up to 12 years - Free

For Foreign Tourist: Free

10- day Season Ticket – INR 300 per person

History 

Started in the year 1992, this cultural event is being organized since then with great enthusiasm and zeal, taking it to new heights. This year, it is in its 23rd year. Organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of India, this vibrant event held at the World Heritage Site - Taj Mahal, is attended by national as well as international tourists in crazy numbers. This is the perfect time to plan a tour to Agra. Along with promotion of art and craft of Agra as well as India, another objective of this Mela is to encourage and support the local and national artisans. Visitors can get their hands on some amazing work of these artisans at genuine and affordable prices.

Taj Mahotsav Programme

It is no exaggeration to say that a visit to the Taj Mahotsav is a cultural, artistic, musical, visual and gastronomical delight. You get a chance to experience, observe and absorb the crème de la crème of India’s culture.

Art and Craft at the Taj Mahotsav

At Taj Mahotsav, over 400 artisans from different parts of India are given a chance to showcase their fine works and exquisite talent. You get an opportunity to have a look at exotic art and craft from various states such as Cane/Bamboo work from north-eastern states, stone/wood carvings from Tamil Nadu, zari work and silk from Benaras, Zardozo and marble work of Agra, Chikan Kadhai work from Lucknow, Paper-mache work from Kashmir and South India, brassware from Moradabad, Kantha stitch from West Bengal, wooden, carving from Saharanpur, hand printed items from Farrukhabad, Pottery from Khurja and more. 

If you are a shopaholic, this is the place to be. You can buy some exotic stuff including traditional dresses, paintings, antique and modern furniture, show pieces, linens and other knick-knacks.

Culture at the Taj Mahotsav

This event is also a majestic show of some mesmerizing and captivating cultural performances by artists from all parts of life. These performances of artists, dramatists, musicians etc from all the regions of the country can surely cast a spell on the spectators. 

The Mahotsav offers a maddening mix of music and dance including Sapera dance from Rajasthan, folk wealth of Bundelkhand, Lavani of Maharashtra, Kerala’s Kathakali, special centuries-old performances from Brij Bhumi and more. These performances are so exciting that you cannot stop yourself from being a part of the artists’ performances. Popular performers from various popular art forms, from all over the country also visit the Taj Mahotsav.

Cuisines at the Taj Mahotsav

This event is not only a display of soul-stirring arts and crafts, but it also a chance for aficionados of mouth-watering food to tingle their taste buds and relish an endless array of sumptuous delicacies. You can gorge on vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, regional specialties, popular dishes of the states and the country, fast food and much more.

Fun Fair at the Taj Mahotsav

Funfair at the Mahotsav is quite popular amidst children who visit this event. A complete family entertainer, funfair offers thrill for all. Members of a family of all the ages can enjoy several kinds of rides. Some of the special rides for children include Ferris-wheel, Merry-go-round and train-rides.

[Explore Agra Tour Packages at IndianHoliday.com]

Contributed by Geetika Handa