About Khajuraho
Discover the ancient legacy of a thousand years, where stone sculptures meet living dance traditions
1000+
Years
25
Temples
1986
UNESCO
Khajuraho: A Thousand Years of Culture
From masterful stone sculptures to living performance traditions — a short history of Khajuraho and the evolution of the Khajuraho Dance Festival, now entering a bold new era.
Origins & Architecture (9th–12th century)
Khajuraho was created under the Chandela dynasty. The temples—built between the 9th and 12th centuries—are celebrated for intricate Nagara-style architecture and richly carved stone sculptures.
Golden Age — Chandela Patrons (c. 950–1050 CE)
The Chandela kings commissioned close to 85 temples (25 survive). Sculptors carved deities, dancers, musicians and daily life — presenting a holistic view of spirituality and human experience.
Symbolism & Sculptural Art
Temples express the unity of life and devotion. Shringara (sensual) motifs are iconic — representing life-energy and spiritual awakening rather than mere erotica.
Decline, Rediscovery & UNESCO Listing
After the 13th century Khajuraho fell into obscurity. Rediscovered by British surveyors in the 19th century, it was later conserved and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.
Dance & Living Traditions
Khajuraho's sculpted dancers inspired living traditions. Performers for centuries have looked to the temple poses for artistic reference — making Khajuraho a natural stage for classical dance.
From Audiences to Participants — A Cultural Shift
Khajuraho has traditionally been known as a place to experience dance and heritage. The Carnival brings a new dimension by enabling dancers to perform, compete and collaborate on a national platform. This shift transforms Khajuraho from a primarily tourism and heritage destination into a vibrant hub for performance arts and emerging talent.
Purpose of the Carnival
The Carnival aims to:
- ✔encourage new and emerging artists
- ✔promote diverse dance forms including classical, folk and contemporary styles
- ✔connect cultural institutions, academies and dance communities
- ✔enhance tourism and cultural engagement in Madhya Pradesh
- ✔position Khajuraho as a modern cultural platform in India
Evolution of the Festival Format
Heritage Era — Khajuraho known for temple arts, sculpture and cultural tourism
Cultural Programming Era — Traditional performances for visitors and cultural audiences
Open Participation Era (Current) — Online auditions + national participation + live finale
The 2026 Edition — Open Participation Model
Online Video Auditions
Participants from any city in India can audition through video submissions, increasing accessibility and reach.
Multiple Dance Categories
Solo, Duet and Group performances across classical, folk, contemporary and fusion styles.
Live Finale at the Carnival
Shortlisted finalists will perform live during the Carnival in Khajuraho, in front of audiences, juries and cultural stakeholders.
Platform for New Talent
The Carnival provides visibility for dance academies, independent performers, cultural troupes and emerging artists looking for national exposure.
1000+
Years of History
25
Surviving Temples
1986
UNESCO Listed
52+
Festival Editions