New Delhi: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav on Friday virtually inaugurated the 52nd Khajuraho Dance Festival, a seven-day international celebration of Indian classical dance being held at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho.
Addressing the gathering via video conferencing, Dr. Yadav described the Khajuraho Dance Festival as a vital part of India’s national heritage. He said Khajuraho is a place “where stones breathe life,” referring to the architectural brilliance and sculptural richness of its temples.
He highlighted prominent temples, including the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Chaturbhuj Temple, Vaman Temple, Chitragupta Temple, and Parvati Temple, calling the region a confluence of valour, heritage, and artistic excellence.
The CM noted that the 52nd edition of the Khajuraho Dance Festival has been dedicated to Lord Nataraja – the cosmic dancer form of Lord Shiva. He termed the event a unique initiative that connects the rich tradition of Indian classical dance with Natesh (Lord Shiva) and India’s spiritual-cultural roots, according to a Madhya Pradesh government official statement.
He said his government is committed to promoting diverse art forms and has increased budget allocations for the Culture Department to support such initiatives.
He welcomed the eminent dancers and representatives of various classical dance traditions who had arrived from across the country and abroad to participate in the prestigious festival.
