Globally acknowledged India's Khajuraho dance fest is being held at Khajuraho temple, a UNESCO world heritage site in Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh.
- The 44th edition of the event commenced with a glittering ceremony and the performance of Raja-Radha Reddy – Kuchipudi dancing couple.
- The festival being organised by the culture department of the Madhya Pradesh government will conclude on February 26, 2018
- During the fest will classical dances, including Kathak, Odissi, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali and Mohiniattam will be showcased
- Modern Indian contemporary dance forms were added in the festival in the recent times.
- During the festival, dance performances are held in an open-air auditorium, usually in front of the Chitragupta Temple dedicated to the Sun God and the Vishwanatha Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
About Khajuraho Dance Festival
- Khajuraho dance festival is organised annually by the Madhya Pradesh Kala Parishad.
- The one-week long festival of classical dances is held against the spectacular backdrop of the magnificently lit Khajuraho temples in Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh
Khajuraho Group of Monuments
- The Khajuraho temples were built by the Chandela dynasty between 950 AD and 1050 AD. The Khajuraho Group of Monuments are world-wide known for their erotic sculptures. The temples are famous for their nagara-style architectural symbolism and their erotic sculptures.
- Historical records note that the Khajuraho temple site had 85 temples by the 12th century, spread over 20 square kilometres. Of these, only about 25 temples have survived, spread over 6 square kilometres.Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is decorated with a profusion of sculptures with intricate details, symbolism and expressiveness of ancient Indian art
- The Khajuraho group of temples were built together but were dedicated to two religions, Hinduism and Jainism, suggesting a tradition of acceptance and respect for diverse religious views among Hindus and Jains in the region.
Expected Questions
Which state organises the Khajuraho Dance Festival every year in February?
a. Uttar Pradesh
b. Madhya Pradesh
c. Gujarat
d. Rajasthan
Khajuraho temples were built by which of the following dynasties?
a. Chera dynasty
b. Chalukya dynasty
c. Chola dynasty
d. Chandela dynasty
