The Khajuraho Dance Festival of 2026 is set to be an extravaganza of Indian classical dance, cultural events, and a carnival like never before. Running from February 20th to 26th, this festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for dance enthusiasts, culture lovers and tourists alike. And the best part? Entry to the festival is completely free!
Held at the famous Khajuraho temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage of India through the art of dance. The temples themselves are renowned for their intricate and beautiful sculptures, depicting various scenes from Hindu mythology and everyday life. And what better backdrop to have for a festival celebrating the beauty of classical Indian dance forms?
The Khajuraho Dance Festival 2026 will showcase some of the most iconic Indian classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Odissi, and Manipuri. These dance forms, with their intricate movements, graceful expressions and rich history, have been a significant part of Indian culture for centuries. And this festival is a perfect opportunity to witness their beauty and grandeur up close.
But the festival is not just limited to classical dance performances. This year, a new addition has been made to the festival – a carnival. This carnival aims to provide a fun-filled and vibrant atmosphere in addition to the cultural events. With food stalls, local handicrafts, music and games, the carnival promises to be a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Khajuraho Dance Festival is that it offers free entry to all. This allows everyone, regardless of their economic status, to be a part of this celebration of Indian culture. It is a welcoming gesture to tourists from all over the world, showcasing the diversity and inclusivity of India.
Apart from the dance performances and the carnival, there will also be various cultural events held during the festival. These events will give visitors a chance to experience the traditions, customs and lifestyle of the local community. It is a great way to get a glimpse into the culture and heritage of India beyond the dance performances.
The Khajuraho Dance Festival is organized by the Madhya Pradesh Kala Parishad in collaboration with the Department of Culture, Government of India. The aim of this festival is not just to promote Indian classical dance forms but also to create awareness about the rich cultural heritage of the country. It also provides a platform for talented artists to showcase their skills and gain recognition.
This year, the festival has also taken a step towards promoting environmental awareness. The organizers have made efforts to make the festival eco-friendly by using traditional and sustainable resources for decorations, organizing waste management systems and encouraging the use of public transport for visitors.
The Khajuraho Dance Festival is not just a cultural event, but it is also a celebration of diversity, inclusivity, and environmental consciousness. It brings together people from all walks of life to appreciate the beauty of Indian classical dance and to experience the rich cultural heritage of the country.
So mark your calendars for February 20th to 26th, and get ready to be mesmerized by the enchanting performances, vibrant carnival, and cultural events at the Khajuraho temples. And don’t forget, entry is free, so bring your friends and family along for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. See you at the Khajuraho Dance Festival 2026!
