India and Festivals - Taj Mahotsav (Celebration near Taj Mahal)

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After information about the Goa Carnival, which has ended yesterday and the Khajuraho Dance Festival which is yet to start, we are coming up with the Taj Mahotsav to be held between 18th to 27th February 2013, at Shilpgram near Taj Mahal in Agra. Considered to be one of the seven wonders, the Taj Mahal is said to be an epitome of beauty despite being a mausoleum of love. If there is anything that receives as much attention and crowd as the Taj Mahal, it is the Taj Mahotsav.

This much awaited Cultural Program which was started in 1992 by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and since continued to reach the height of nationwide as well as internationally known festival is entering its 22nd year of cultural extravaganza starting on 18th February 2013 providing platform for talented artists to showcase their talent in cultural dance, Music, Art and craft on the single platform for 10 days starting with procession of beautifully Decorated Elephants and Camels reminding of the grand era of Mughal Empire from 18th and 19th Centuries.

A ten days event, having its main objective to provide encouragement and make available the work of authentic art and craft at the reasonable cost also encouraging the performers of Folk and classical music, dance and songs performances as well as fun and frolics of rides, games and food on one single vibrant platform of Taj Mahotsav.

At Taj Mahotsav in Shilpgram, the Artisans and Craftsmen from different parts of Country displays their great skills and exquisite works of arts and crafts. This festival gives opportunity to such artisans to get the local and international platform for marketing their craftsmanship and products. The arts and crafts from various parts of

 India are displayed here such as wood carving from Saharanpur, wood and stone carving from Tamil Nadu, Papier mache work of South India and Kashmir, Shawls and Carpets of Kashmir and Gujarat, Pottery of Khurja, Marble of Agra and Rajasthan, Silk material and Zari embroidery work from Banaras, Chikan Embroidery of Lucknow, brass and metal ware of Moradabad, handmade carpets of Bhadohi, 

Bamboo and cane work from North East parts of India, Hand Printing work of Farrukhabad and Kantha and many more.

In addition to the arts and crafts one can experience the majestic and soul-stirring performance of artists from various states of Country in the cultural evenings for a spectacular show casting a spell on the visitors. The Folk and classical music and dance of braj bhumi, performed the way it used to since centuries is thrilling, and not only that, but from other parts like Maharasthra’s Lavani and Nautanki, Rajasthan’s Kalbelia Tribe's dance also well known as Sapera dance, would make you join the folk dancers and enjoy the singing and dancing to the different music and dance style. Besides the folk music and dances, the Taj Mahotsav also exhibits the performance from the world renowned artistes from classical, semi-classical and popular art forms. The musicians and singers such as Sonu Nigam, late Jagjit Singh, Rahat Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Sunidhi Chauhan, Shreya Ghoshal and many others have graced the festival with their performances in the previous years. The upcoming Artists and Performers are also given ample room for showcasing their brilliant performances.

Indian festivities can never be complete without the preparation of exotic cuisine. Some of the best and richest foods are available during this time. Besides being the destination for the arts & crafts, Culture of Music and Dance, Taj Mahotsav is also a delight for good food as it is the ideal place to pamper the taste buds of the visitors with endless varieties of some of the oldest exponents of the cuisines preparing scrumptious dishes and one cannot stop having the lip smacking experience. One can also relish the typical preparations from the interiors of Uttar Pradesh.

Not forgetting the fun fair, this is a biggest attraction for children in Taj Mahotsav. There are rides and games for all age group from children to teenagers and adults making it a whole family entertaining experience. Thus Taj Mahotsav represents the culture and tradition of Incredible India and is truly unique leaving the tourists mesmerized.

Enjoying the event with the magnificent Taj Mahal at the backdrop, it is a totally different kind of experience. The foreign tourists who are on Agra during this time must add this Taj Mahotsav to their Itinerary and enjoy the occasion as famous artists, musicians, dancers and chefs put their best effort to make the carnival most enjoyable.

With this we end our blog about Taj Mahotsav, hope you will enjoy this festivity this year or may be the years to come, for any further information we request you to contact us and we are always there to assist you for any requirements you might have. Till next time we meet, take care and enjoy.