Festivals of Maharashtra
Modern Festivals of Maharashtra
Every year, MTDC seeks to present the myriad facets of Maharashtra's rich heritage
of the performing arts through a series of festivals held at important cultural
centres. The years have added a mesmerising allure to these events, now avidly
awaited by lovers of Indian music, art and culture, who appreciate the artistry
of India's leading exponents of classical music and dance who come from all
over the country to perform at the festivals.
Pune Festival
Lord Ganesh, or Ganpati as He is popularly called in Maharashtra, is among the
most beloved of Hindu Gods. As Ganesh Chaturthi - his day of birth - approaches
every year in August-September, so does the Pune Festival, a celebration of
art and culture, song and dance, custom and tradition.
Originally conceived as a localised cultural event, the Pune Festival has, over
the years, gained national and international stature and evolved into one of
India's landmark cultural happenings. It is one of the few festivals that has
been consistently and actively promoted abroad by the government of India, as
a major tourist attraction.
Some of the country's internationally renowned artistes have gathered at Pune,
and regarded it as a privilege to be invited to perform at the festival. While
it has provided a unique platform for exponents of classical music and dance
it has, keeping pace with changing times, also helped to promote modern trends
in the performing arts, notably the dramatic arts and the traditional art of
rangoli.
A rare treat, the week-long Pune Festival provides a feast of entertainment
for visitors who can participate and revel in traditional and modern sports
events, shop for exquisite textiles and handicrafts, relish the delectable cuisine
and rejoice in the colourful customs of Maharashtra.
More Festivals
of Maharashtra
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