52nd Khajuraho Dance Festival, 2026

52nd Khajuraho Dance Festival, 2026

The 52nd edition of the Khajuraho Dance Festival continues a distinguished legacy of celebrating Indian classical dance against the magnificent backdrop of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments. Over five decades, the festival has become a prominent platform for artistic excellence and cultural expression.

Date: 20-26 February 2026
Vanue: Khajuraho Group of Temples

Festival Highlights 2026

Beyond the grandeur of the main stage performances, the 52nd Khajuraho Dance Festival presents a vibrant constellation of curated experiences that celebrate dance, dialogue, craft, cuisine and cultural immersion.

Khajuraho Carnival (New)
A national-level dance competition accompanied by craft, food and cultural exhibitions. The Carnival transforms the festival grounds into a dynamic celebration of artistic diversity and regional traditions.

Natraja (New)
An exhibition of sculptures depicting Lord Shiva's cosmic dance forms, alongside Shaiva-Shakta paintings. A rare visual exploration of spiritual symbolism and classical iconography.

Rashtriya Baal Nritya Mahotsav
The National Children's Dance Festival featuring classical dance performances by emerging young artists from across India, nurturing the next generation of cultural torchbearers.

Lay Shala (23-25 February 2026)
Interactive sessions with renowned gurus representing diverse Indian classical dance traditions. A rare opportunity for meaningful dialogue, learning and artistic exchange.

Kalavarta
A thought-provoking forum bringing together artists, scholars, critics and cultural thinkers for interdisciplinary discussions on aesthetics, heritage and performance traditions.

Art Mart
An exhibition-cum-sale showcasing nature-themed watercolour works and traditional instruments used in Indian folk and classical music.

Hunar (20-26 February 2026)
A vibrant craft bazaar featuring traditional artisans and handmade creations, celebrating India's living craft heritage.

Srijan
Live demonstrations of clay sculpture inspired by the architecture of Khajuraho, along with traditional craft-making techniques presented by master artisans.

Swaad
A curated culinary experience offering authentic regional delicacies from across India, celebrating the diversity of Indian flavours.

Madhya Pradesh Tourism Activities
Curated experiential tours including village visits with nomadic communities, guided nature walks, camping experiences, Khajuraho village tours, e-bike tours, water sports, adventurous experiences and fam-tours.

Together, these thoughtfully designed experiences elevate the Khajuraho Dance Festival into a multidimensional cultural celebration, where performance, participation and heritage converge in one extraordinary week.

Organised by the Department of Culture, Government of Madhya Pradesh, through the Ustad Allauddin Khan Academy of Music and Arts, the festival brings together eminent performers and emerging talents from across the country. Alongside its acclaimed stage performances, the 2026 edition presents a range of curated experiences that further enrich the celebration of India's living traditions.

To know more, Visit- https://khajurahodancefestival.com/