Taj Mahotsava is a cultural extravaganza organized at Shilpgram region of Agra in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, to celebrate the rich culture, traditions, art, crafts, dance, music and cuisine that have enriched the Indian heritage through ages. The festival is celebrated every year for 10 days in the month of February where one can cherish the memories of Mughal era and royal lifestyle existent in the state during 18th to 19th centuries. Taj Mahotsava was started in the year 1992 and since then it has experienced continuous enhancement in its grandeur over years.
Features of Taj Mahotsava
A road procession along with decorated camels and elephants depicting the victory processions of warlords and Mughal Emperors marks the beginning of Taj Mahotsava. The procession is also joined by adept craftsmen, folk dancers, trumpet players and drum beaters. It also provides a great boost to the skilled artists of the country to popularize their art. It offers a unique occasion where about 400 artisans hailing from different regions of India showcase their exquisite artworks. The prominent artworks which are usually witnessed in Taj Mahotsava include Kantha stitch from West Bengal, hand printing from Farrukhabad, carpets and shawls from Kashmir/Gujarat, silk and zari work from Banaras,
Chikan work from Lucknow, pottery from Khurja, hand made carpets from Bhadohi, brass wares from Moradabad, wood carving from Saharanpur, marble and zardozi work from Agra, paper mash work from South India and Kashmir, Bamboo/cane work from North East India and wood/stone carvings from Tamil Nadu.
Taj Mahotsava also features artists from different spheres of art. Their spellbinding performances are pure delight for the tourists and visitors. The popular event also offers a platform to the Uttar Pradesh State AIDS Control Society for creating AIDS awareness through various folk dances. Classical and folk genres in both dance and music grace the festivity. Brij Bhumi is a special attraction of the event which is performed just the way it was performed centuries ago creating a pleasing ancient aura. The folk dances are often joined by the visitors which manifolds their enjoyment. Exponents of classical, semi classical and popular art forms also bestow their splendid performances in Taj Mahotsava
Cuisines in Taj Mahotsava
Taj Mahotsava is also a paradise for food lovers where one can enjoy scrumptious cuisines. Special preparations of Uttar Pradesh as well as luscious delicacies of ancient India can be relished in Taj Mahotsava to pamper the taste buds greatly.
Themes of Taj Mahotsava
Taj Mahotsava every year focuses on a theme and the festival is celebrated to spread a message to the world. For instance in the year 2009, the event centred on the concept of Sulah Kul which refers to universal peace and harmony. Although the concept of Sulah Kul surfaced in India during ancient era, it gained prominence during the rule of Akbar, the great Mughal Emperor, who inculcated Sulah Kul in his state policies. The policy advocated equal respect for all religions in the administration. However in the present scenario the same concept of universal peace is once again emerging as important. Taj Mahotsava also invites people form distant countries who are not even charged for enjoying this exquisite festival.
Fun Fair in Taj Mahotsava
Fun fair in Taj Mahotsava is the destination for complete family enjoyment. Various entertainments and amusement activities are catered in it which delights the people belonging to different age groups. Roller coaster rides, merry-go-round, Ferris wheel and Train-rides are the most inviting factors for the children in Taj Mahotsava.