Introduction:

A ten-day event, the Taj Mahotsav at Agra is a culturally vibrant platform that brings together the finest Indian Crafts and cultural nuances. Starting on 18th February each year in Shilpgram, the Taj Mahotsav is a much-awaited event. It is a festive introduction to India and Uttar Pradesh. India's extensive arts, crafts and culture are on display. Folk music, shayari (poetry) and classical dance performances as well as elephant and camel rides, games and a food festival, all form a part of the festivities.

Ten Days Carnival

The Taj Mahotsav is a non-stop 10 day carnival held annually at Shilpgram, near Tajmahal. The impressive festival commences with a spectacular procession inspired by Mughal splendor.

Bedecked elephants and camels, drum beaters, folk artists and master craftsmen together recreate the glorious past of the Mughals.

The Taj Mahal Mahotsav area becomes a live culture, crafts and traditions. It is a great opportunity for legendary artisans to display their exquisite works of art. Marble of course rules the festivities each year for obvious reasons.

Besides these, crafts include wood carvings from Saharanpur, brass and other metal ware from Moradabad, handmade carpets of Badohi, the pottery of Khurja, chickan-work of Lucknow, the silk of Banaras and much more.

Indian festivities can never be complete without the preparation of exotic cuisine. Some of the best and richest foods are available during this time.

Add to this the soul-stirring performances from folk artists of various states casting a spell on the visitors. Throughout the Taj Mahotsav, one can experience a profusion of folk music and dances of Dundelkhand, 'Nautanki' (Drama), 'Sapera' dance of Rajasthan, Lavani of Maharashtra. performed just the way they used to be centuries ago. Visitors join in with the folk dancers enjoying swinging to a different tune and dance style.

The Taj Mahotsav is truly India at her best with a glimpse of her rich heritage and extraordinary legacies.