Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav: South India takes center stage at Rashtrapati Bhavan’s annual cultural festival

An annual cultural festival dedicated to celebrating India’s diverse heritage by highlighting the unique traditions of various regions is scheduled to take place at Rashtrapati Bhavan from March 6 to 9, running daily from 10 am to 8 am. (Image credits: ANI)

The festival, Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav, was inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu. According to the ministry of culture, this year’s edition puts a spotlight on South India, bringing its distinct art forms, crafts, and cultural traditions to the forefront. (Image credits: ANI)

A major highlight of this year’s edition is the participation of over 500 artisans where visitors will get to explore and purchase exquisite creations such as Kanjeevaram and Kasavu sarees, Pochampally ikat, Mysore silk, and intricately crafted brass and wooden artifacts. (Image credits: ANI)

Adding to the cultural vibrancy, more than 400 artists will perform folk and classical dance and music, offering a glimpse into South India’s heritage. (Image credits: ANI)

The festival was first introduced last year with a focus on Northeast India. The inaugural edition received an overwhelming response, attracting approximately 1.3 lakh visitors and generating over Rs 1 crore in sales for artisans. (Image credits: X @rashtrapatibhvn)

For its second edition, the festival shifts its focus to South India, highlighting the cultural richness of five states—Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh—along with the Union territories of Lakshadweep and Puducherry. (Image credits: ANI)

With this initiative, the festival aims to transform Rashtrapati Bhavan into a hub for cultural exchange, making India’s vibrant heritage more accessible to its citizens. A key feature of this year’s event is the Youth Engagement Zone, which will offer interactive workshops, storytelling sessions, and cultural activities designed to inspire and educate the younger generation. (Image credits: X @rashtrapatibhvn)