Prayagraj Mahakumbh revives folk art and empowers folk artists
Over 11,000 artists performed on various cultural stages at Mahakumbh
Foreign cultural teams, along with the Central and State Governments, also had the opportunity to showcase their art
Folk Artists call Mahakumbh the biggest folk art festival, thank Yogi government
Prayagraj, March 16
The Mahakumbh in Prayagraj was not just a grand confluence of faith and spirituality but also a vibrant celebration of India’s rich cultural heritage. The Yogi government of Uttar Pradesh provided a prestigious platform for thousands of folk artists, allowing them to showcase their talent across various cultural stages. For these artists, the event became nothing less than a ‘Mahakumbh of folk art.’
As the largest festival of cultural unity and social harmony, the Mahakumbh breathed new life into traditional folk arts and the artists who work tirelessly to preserve them.
Dr. Rajesh Ahirwar, Assistant Director of Uttar Pradesh’s Culture Department, stated that the Prayagraj Mahakumbh became a true reflection of India’s rich cultural heritage. The grand event provided a platform for more than 11,500 artists to showcase their talent across various stages. The performances included celebrity artists, classical and semi-classical music, singing, instrumental music, dance, folk music, and theatrical presentations. In total, around 1,650 performances were held throughout the Kumbh.
During the Mahakumbh from January 13 to February 26, 2025, the Uttar Pradesh Culture Department organized “Kala Kumbh” and other cultural programs on smaller stages. Nearly 6,500 folk artists, including performers from different states, presented their art on designated dates, making the event a grand celebration of traditional and folk arts.
The Prayagraj Mahakumbh provided the largest stage for folk artists to showcase their talent, expanding their reach and artistic expressions. Along with introducing visitors to India’s diverse folk traditions, the event also served as a source of entertainment and cultural engagement for devotees and tourists.
Within the Mahakumbh area, platforms were offered by organizations like the North Central Zone Cultural Centre (NCZCC), CCRT Delhi, and other cultural institutions. Beyond the Kumbh site, folk artists performed at over 20 locations across the city, ensuring widespread participation. An international team from Florida also showcased their talent at the event, adding a global touch.
Based on the sheer number of folk performances, the Prayagraj Mahakumbh has emerged as the largest cultural festival in the country. Renowned folk singer and Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Uday Chandra Pardeshi stated that while 6,000 folk artists perform at Delhi’s “Apna Utsav,” the Mahakumbh surpassed this scale, providing even greater opportunities.
Atul Yaduvanshi, President of the Bharatiya Lok Kala Mahasangh, praised the Yogi government for ensuring that folk artists from across Uttar Pradesh were given a grand stage. He called the Mahakumbh the most fertile and significant platform ever for folk artists, bringing unprecedented recognition and opportunities to those keeping India’s rich folk traditions alive.
