MOSCOW, Russia – The buzz in Moscow’s Manezhnaya Square is electric! The “Festival of India – Bharat Utsav” is a vibrant celebration of Indian culture that has brought joy and colorful performances to this iconic venue.
On social media, the Indian Embassy in Russia shared highlights from the festivities. They described a beautiful start to the day filled with devotional songs and patriotic tunes. The message was clear: “Vikaas Bhi, Viraasat Bhi!”—let’s cherish both development and heritage.
This festival runs from July 5 to 13 and offers everyone—from locals to tourists—a chance to experience the richness of Indian traditions. With live performances, food stalls, crafts, and more, it’s a feast for the senses. This event is part of Moscow’s “Summer in Moscow” initiative, which boasts over 1,000 cultural happenings. It’s a great way for people to connect through art and culture.
The festival area feels like a garden paradise, decorated with traditional Indian elements and plenty of greenery. One standout was the Jivan Nritya Group, performing “Family of Gods: Shiva, Parvati, and Ganesha.” Their dance beautifully blended spirituality with elegance.
But it wasn’t just classical arts on display. Bollywood also had its moment in the spotlight, with dancers bringing the vibrant rhythms of Indian cinema to life. From Kuchipudi to Bharatnatyam, attendees enjoyed a range of classical dances alongside folk songs in regional languages like Maithili and Tamil.
Visitors can also try their hand at Raja Yoga Meditation, learning about inner peace and self-discovery through traditional Indian practices. There’s something for everyone, with an interactive quiz, a handicraft fair, and a chance to pick up unique clothing, artwork, and wooden crafts.
Bulat Nurmukhanov, Deputy Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, noted the strong interest in Indian culture. “This festival not only celebrates Indian traditions but also strengthens the bonds between our nations,” he remarked. It’s exciting to see participants come from afar to share their rich culture and food.
The Festival of Bharat will continue until July 13, offering an immersive experience of India’s cultural legacy. If you’re in Moscow, this is a wonderful opportunity to engage with a world of art and culture.