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The Taj
Mahotsav is a non-stop 10 day carnival held annually at
Shilpgram, near Tajmahal. The impressive festival commences with
a spectacular procession inspired by Mughal splendor. Bedecked
elephants and camels, drum beaters, folk artists and master
craftsmen together recreate the glorious past of the Mughals.
The Taj Mahal Mahotsav area comes alive culture, crafts and
traditions. It is a great opportunity for legendary artisans to
display their exquisite works of art. Marble of course rules the
festivities each year for obvious reasons.
Besides these, crafts include wood carvings from Saharanpur,
brass and other metal ware from Moradabad, handmade carpets of
Badohi, the pottery of Khurja, chickan-work of Lucknow, the silk
of Banares and much more.
Indian festivities can never be complete without the preparation
of exotic cuisine. Some of the best and richest foods are
available during this time.
Add to this the soul-stirring performances from folk artists of
various states casting a spell on the visitors. Throughout the
Taj Mahotsav, one can experience a profusion of folk music and
dances of Dundelkhand, 'Nautanki' (Drama), 'Sapera' dance of
Rajasthan, Lavani of Maharashtra... performed just the way they
used to be centuries ago. Visitors join in with the folk dancers
enjoying swinging to a different tune and dance style.
The Taj Mahotsav is truly India at her best with a glimpse of her
rich heritage and extraordinary legacies.
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