“Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav” is an annual cultural festival that celebrates India’s diverse heritage by showcasing the unique traditions of different regions. This year the event is being inaugurated by the President of India Smt. 

Droupadi Murmu on 5thMarch 2025 at Rashtrapati Bhawan. It will be open to the public from 6th to 9th March from 10.00 AM to 8.00 PM. The first edition, held last year, focused on North-East India and received an overwhelming response with 1.3 lakh visitors and ₹1 crore+ in sales for artisans. 

Following this success, the second edition highlights South India, featuring the five states of Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, along with Lakshadweep and Puducherry. The festival aims to make Rashtrapati Bhavan a hub for cultural exchange, bringing India’s vibrant heritage closer to its citizens. 

Key Highlights of the South India Edition:

• 500+ artisans and weavers showcasing traditional handicrafts and handlooms, including Kanjeevaram and Kasavu sarees, Pochampally ikat, Mysore silk, and intricate brass and wooden crafts.
• 400+ artists presenting folk and classical dance and music forms, bringing South India’s cultural essence to life.
• Authentic cuisines featuring signature South Indian delicacies such as Bisi Bele Bath, Kerala Sadya, Chettinad specialties, and Andhra’s fiery flavors.
• Youth Engagement Zone with interactive workshops, storytelling, and cultural activities to inspire the younger generation.

This festival has been made possible through the support of the Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Textiles, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Ministry of Tourism, and all the participating states and Union Territories which have played a crucial role in preserving and promoting India’s diverse heritage.

Accessibility & Public Participation:

To ensure that this cultural celebration is inclusive and open to all, entry is completely free, allowing every citizen to experience the richness of South India’s traditions without barriers.

Call to Action:

The public is encouraged to visit, engage with artisans, enjoy cultural performances, and immerse themselves in the unique heritage of South India. The free ticket for the festival can be booked through https://visit.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in/plan-visit/amrit-udyan/rE/mO

Entry to the venue is from Gate No. 35 of Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav serves as a platform to connect people with their roots while empowering artisans and performers. This Mahotsav is not just a celebration but a reaffirmation of India’s unity in diversity, strengthening cultural bonds and fostering pride in our collective heritage.

List of art forms and craft forms are attached below:-

List of Art Forms

1. Andhra Pradesh
   1. Kuchipudi
   2. Dappulu
   3. Tappetagullu
   4. Dhimsa
2. Karnataka
   1. Viragase
   2. Dollukunitha
   3. Kamsale
   4. Yakshagana
   5. Poojakunitha
   6. Lambani Kunitha
   7. Mahila Veeragase
3. Kerala
   1. Kathakali
   2. Mohiniyattam
   3. Kaliyattam
4. Lakshdweep
   1. Parichakali
   2. Bandiya
5. Tamil Nadu
   1. Thappattam
   2. Bharatnatyam
   3. Oyilattam
   4. Periyamelam
6. Telangana
   1. Mathuri
   2. Gussadi
   3. Oggu Dolu
   4. Perini Natyam

List of Craft Forms

1. Andhra Pradesh
   1. Etikoppaka Toys
   2. Kondapalli Toys
2. Telangana
   1. Banjara Embroidery
   2. Docra Casting
   3. Kalamkari Block Printing
   4. Silver Filigree
   5. Zari and Zardozi
3. Puducheryy
   1. Block Printing
   2. Coconut shell craft
   3. Terracotta
4. Karnataka
   1. Chennapatna Toys
   2. Mysore Rosewood Inlay
5. Tamil Nadu
   1. Kota Pottery
   2. Stone Carving
   3. Tanjore Painting

Note:Mahotsav is open to the public from 6th to 9th March from 10.00 AM to 8.00 PM

By Sunil Kumar Tiwari