Delhi Kala Utsav 2026 Celebrates Indian Art at Mandi House

The two-day *Delhi Kala Utsav 2026*, organized by Sanskar Bharati, Delhi Prant, with the support of the Government of Delhi, concluded successfully at Rabindra Bhavan, Mandi House, New Delhi. The cultural festival not only attracted a large number of art enthusiasts over both days but was also widely appreciated as a memorable event due to its high-quality presentations.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of Shri Harsh Malhotra, Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways, Government of India; Shri Vijender Gupta, Speaker, Delhi Legislative Assembly; Shri Vijay Kumar, All India Sah-Vyavastha Pramukh & Regional Organization Minister, Sanskar Bharati; and Shri Ashok Tiwari, National Executive Member, Sanskar Bharati. The dignitaries highlighted the importance of such initiatives in preserving and promoting India’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.

The festival showcased a vibrant confluence of classical music, dance, folk performances, theatre, poetry, and traditional art forms across both days. Renowned santoor maestro and composer Pandit Abhay Rustam Sopori presented a special performance of *Raag Bharati*, a newly composed raga, which received immense appreciation from the audience. Ms. Vidhi Sharma captivated listeners with her melodious presentation of traditional Holi songs.

Among the theatrical performances, the play *“Besahara Aurat”*, directed by Shri Pradeep Kukreja, received special acclaim. The poetry symposium held during the festival continued to be a major attraction, where eminent poets moved audiences with their compositions. One of the most unique highlights of the event was *Vrindavan Ki Phoolon Ki Holi*, presented by Charkula Arts Academy, which deeply connected the audience with the cultural traditions of Holi.

Notably, Delhi Kala Utsav 2026 was organized with the support of the Government of Delhi, along with the participation of Maithili-Bhojpuri Academy, Lalit Kala Akademi, and various cultural institutions, making it a collaborative cultural platform for the capital’s art community. Organized ahead of the Holi festival, the event offered visitors an opportunity to experience India’s vibrant folk traditions and cultural colors, allowing audiences to witness the living heritage of Indian culture up close. Several distinguished personalities from the fields of art and culture were also present at the program.

The event was curated by noted playwright Shri Jaiprakash Singh. A key feature of Delhi Kala Utsav was that it was not a commercial or profit-oriented event, but a cultural initiative dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and dissemination of India’s artistic traditions. Along with established artists, the platform also provided opportunities to emerging talents who otherwise may not receive adequate exposure.

Shri Prabhat Kumar, President, Sanskar Bharati, Delhi Prant, expressed his gratitude to all artists, guests, collaborators, and attendees for making the event successful. He stated that such initiatives serve as a strong medium to reinforce Indian cultural values in society and also shared that efforts are underway to make the festival even more expansive and grand in the coming year.

Visitors also enjoyed folk art displays, participation of traditional artisans, puppet shows, handicraft exhibitions, and traditional delicacies from Old Delhi (Delhi-6). The enthusiastic participation of families, students, and art lovers added special vibrancy to the celebration.