Carnival time in Khajuraho

Photo Feature: Vignettes from the 52nd Khajuraho Dance Festival, a week-long celebration of dance and music, world-class performances on the premises of a thousand-year-old temple complex with timeless messages of magical love, aesthetic beauty and compassion in a world scarred by relentless volatility, war and chaos...

By Raju Mansukhani in Khajuraho

Photo captions from top:

Odissi dancer framed against the sculptures adorning the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple at Khajuraho.

It's carnival time: No stopping the folk artistes at the Shilpagram.  

Manipuri magic of Km Thokchom Ibemudi Devi: Casting her spell on stage during the 52nd Khajuraho Dance Festival 2026.

Mastering Odissi: Amazing ‘bal kalakar’ talent on show at the Festival.

Here is Kathak's little star on stage: Eager and energetic.

Sattriya Kendra troupe from Guwahati: In full flow during the evening performance, their dance of devotion.  

The grandeur of Kandariya Mahadeva Temple provides a spectacular stage for Khajuraho to come alive with dance and music, year after year.

Catching the Odissi maestro Guru Shri Durga Charan Ranbir at a rehearsal: Dedicated to his art.

Taking the carnival to the streets: Colours of India on display.