Hampi festival 2016
Hampi Utsav or Festival of Hampi is an annual event organized by the Government of Karnataka. It is a cultural extravaganza lasting three days. Hampi Utsav 2016 will be held from January 9, 2016 to Jan 11, 2016. Cultural events are the highlight of the festival.
Hampi Festival (also known as Vijaya Utsav) is one of the most important festivals of Karnataka. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The festival started during the reign of the Vijayanagar emperor. Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagar Kingdom. The whole of Hampi comes alive during these three days of dance, drama and music. Puppet shows are organized during festivals. In addition, there will be colorful processions and fireworks.
The Hampi Festival is organized with the objective of attracting more and more visitors to Hampi which is already a major tourist attraction.
People from all over the world visit Hampi during these days to enjoy the festivities. The programs and events are organized in such a way that they attempt to recreate the grandeur of the bygone era.
The Kingdom of Vijaynagar had skilled craftsmen who could create beautiful handicrafts and leather puppets. Modern craftsmen showcase similar products at the festival in an attempt to prove that traditional skills haven’t been lost. Throughout the festival, musical instruments like pipes and drums are played. Decorated horses and elephants line the streets and men wearing the Golden Era clothes are posted under the four Gopuras (towers) of red, blue, green and white colors.
Dancers, artists and vocalists will entertain the visitors at various venues. The festival also provides ample opportunities for shopping. Other attractions include an elephant march (Jumbo Savari), a folk music concert (Janapada Kalavahini) and a light and sounds show.