Folk & Classical Performances
Local and national-level artists, singers, dancers and musicians performed across the festival's stages — from folk traditions to classical forms.
Flagship event · Held September 26 – October 18, 2025
Our flagship cultural festival — staged in Lucknow, the cultural and political capital of Uttar Pradesh — brought together artists, folk performers, musicians and dancers from 76 districts across the state on one grand stage.
Kala Mahakumbh was conceived to sustain art, empower communities and celebrate India's rich cultural diversity. Emerging artists received a national-quality stage; Self-Help Groups and artisans received exhibition spaces to showcase and sell handmade products, promoting indigenous crafts and the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative; and food stalls supported small-scale local food entrepreneurs.
Why Lucknow
Lucknow, the host city, is renowned for its rich heritage, vibrant traditions and diverse communities. As per the 2011 census, the district was home to over 4.5 million people, with nearly 34% residing in urban areas — an ideal setting for a grand celebration of India's cultural diversity.
Event highlights
Across the festival period, visitors experienced the breadth of Uttar Pradesh's living traditions.
Local and national-level artists, singers, dancers and musicians performed across the festival's stages — from folk traditions to classical forms.
Crafts, pottery, painting and traditional art forms demonstrated live, giving visitors a window into skills passed down through generations.
Rural entrepreneurs and artisans showcased and sold handmade products, promoting indigenous crafts and One District One Product.
Regional cuisine took centre stage, supporting small-scale food entrepreneurs and local flavours.
Hands-on learning and cultural dialogue drew attendees of every age into the creative process.
Outstanding artists and cultural contributors were honoured for their work and their role in keeping traditions alive.



Kala Mahakumbh 2025 · Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh