Venue: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala

Time: October and March

Duration: One week

Highlights:

•  Renowned artists perform a diverse range of dances, including Bharathanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak, Odissi, modern ballet, and various folk dances.

Nishagandhi Dance Festival: A Cultural Extravaganza in the Heart of Kerala

For enthusiasts of dance and music, the annual Nishagandhi Dance Festival unfolds seven nights of sheer entertainment and artistic brilliance, showcasing the pinnacle of Indian classical artistry. Spanning the months of October to March, this captivating event takes center stage at the Nishagandhi Theatre, nestled within the Kanakunnu palace compound in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The festival serves as a radiant celebration of India's rich cultural heritage, spotlighting various classical ballet forms in an open-air auditorium set against the backdrop of Kanakakunnu Palace.

Kanakakunnu Palace - A Cultural Haven:

The enchanting Kanakakunnu Palace, situated in Trivandrum and adjacent to the Napier museum, serves as the quintessential venue for the Nishagandhi Festival. Built by Sree Moolam Thirunal, the palace stands as a cultural stage deeply ingrained in local heritage. Formerly a summer retreat and guest house for the royal family, the palace now echoes with the rhythms of musical recitals, food festivals, and the grandeur of dance events. Recognized as a heritage structure by INTACH, Kanakakunnu Palace has become the preferred backdrop for the most celebrated dance fair.

The Diverse Showcase:

The Nishagandhi Festival not only brings forth the rich tapestry of local folk dance but also transcends boundaries to showcase diverse classical styles, including Bharathanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak, and Odissi. While primarily a dance extravaganza, the festival attracts music enthusiasts who revel in the classical tunes accompanying each performance. Professional musicians, well-versed in the nuances of classical music, enhance the overall experience, creating a sensory feast for traditional music and dance aficionados.

   Cultural Fusion Beyond Dance:

•    The festival goes beyond dance performances, transforming Kanakakunnu Palace into a vibrant canvas reflecting India's rich heritage.
•    Sooryakanthi Fair Ground, adjacent to the palace, hosts an art and craft fair featuring bamboo, cane, clay, and coconut products.
•    A culinary journey unfolds at the food festival, offering a diverse range of delicacies from traditional Kerala recipes to Mughlai and Bengali dishes.
•    Traditional arts and handicrafts of Kerala are showcased, adding an enriching dimension to the festival.
•    The food festival serves as a gastronomic delight and a major attraction for Nishagandhi Dance Festival attendees.

Widespread Recognition and Growing Popularity:

The Nishagandhi Festival of Dance has gained renown not only within the artistic circuits of classical dance but also among emerging dancers. Organized by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, this cultural extravaganza stands as an initiative to promote Indian heritage and culture, attracting a significant population of foreign tourists. At times, it becomes a collaborative effort with other states. Year after year, the festival witnesses a growing footfall, thanks to its diverse range of showcased dances. Artists and dance enthusiasts from across the country contribute to its popularity. Open to the general public without any admission charges, the festival continues to attract larger audiences to Kanakakunnu Palace. Renowned artists like Madhumita Paul, Madhavi Mudgal, N. Srikanth, Aswathy, T.V. Sankaranarayanan, Vyjanthi Kashi, Priti Patel, C.V. Chandrasekhar, Mattannur Sankarankutty, and Balabhaskar have graced this celebrated event, adding to its allure.

Thiruvananthapuram - A Cultural Odyssey:

Thiruvananthapuram, with its rich historical backdrop as the home to the Maharaja of Travancore, serves as a perfect host city for the Nishagandhi Dance Festival. From royal palaces to captivating museums, the city embraces centuries-old customs and legacy. Key attractions include the Napier Museum, The Museums and Zoo, Padmanabhaswamy Temple, and Kuthiramalika Palace Museum. Travelers attending the dance festival are encouraged to include these iconic sites in their itinerary, ensuring a holistic cultural experience.

How to Get There:

•  By Air: Trivandrum International Airport, the first airport in Kerala, facilitates seamless connectivity with regular domestic and international flights.
•  By Rail: Thiruvananthapuram is a major railway station in South India, connecting to key destinations.
•  By Road: A well-established road network connects Thiruvananthapuram to cities like Kochi, Alleppey, and Kumarakom, providing convenient travel options.

In the heart of Kerala, the Nishagandhi Dance Festival unfolds as a testament to the country's artistic prowess, cultural diversity, and vibrant traditions. Each performance, set against the regal backdrop of Kanakakunnu Palace, narrates a captivating story that resonates with the echoes of classical rhythms and the soul-stirring melodies of India's cultural legacy.