Tourists throng Khajuraho's Art and Dance Festival

Tourists from all over the world thronged Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh on Friday to be a part of the art and dance festival.

The festival delighted the visitors with vibrant colours, beautiful handicrafts and dance performances.

As part of the festival, a Khajuraho Art Mart was also organised, which saw participation of various artists from all over the country.

"Tourists from India and all over the world come to watch this exhibition, which is a part of the Khajuraho festival. This festival shows our traditional culture, which is in danger of being extinct. People are especially attracted by the stalls, which have come from all over the country," said a resident, Ram Vishal Dikshit.

Artists exhibiting their craftsmanship received appreciation. Visitors were seen scanning various stalls and buying traditional items.

"I think it is beautiful art that is displayed here. It's always good to support a local art. I have not seen such things before in India," said a visitor from the U.S, Margaret.

The 40th annual festival kicked off on Thursday (February 20) and will conclude on February 26.

The week-long event will also see classical dancers performing various dance styles including Kuchipudi, Kathak and Manipuri.

The festival is also celebrating the exquisiteness and daintiness of human emotions and devout philosophy of Hindu religion.

"I have come to showcase my pottery work, which is being displayed here. Apart from showing our art, we are also teaching it to those willing to learn. Our work is also seen by tourists from all over the world," said an artist, Devi Prajapati.

Many classical artists were honoured at the festival and young dancers got a platform to showcase their talent.

The event saw the presence of various provincial leaders including state culture and tourism minister, Surendra Patwa. Many tourists from other countries also made it to the festival to view and participate in it.