President inaugurates Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav at Rashtrapati Nilayam in Secunderabad

Hyderabad: President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the second edition of the Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav at Rashtrapati Nilayam in Secunderabad on Friday. The nine-day festival opened with a vibrant showcase of Western India’s cultural traditions and is being organised with support from the Ministries of Culture, Textiles and Tourism. Moreover, the event will remain open to the public from November 22 to 30, with free entry and both online and walk-in booking options.

The festival spotlights the heritage of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Goa, Daman and Diu, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli. While addressing the gathering, the President recalled that the first edition introduced visitors to the culture of the North-East. This edition, she said, offers an opportunity to explore Western India through handicrafts, music, dance, literature and regional cuisine.

Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav highlights Western India’s cultural strength

The President said the Government of India continued to take several steps to connect citizens—especially the youth—with India’s cultural roots. Furthermore, she noted that events such as the Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav help people from different regions understand each other better. As a result, they broaden social perspectives and inspire deeper respect for the nation’s artistic diversity. She added that such festivals also encourage people to preserve cultural heritage.

She expressed confidence that the festival would draw strong public participation throughout the week. Several dignitaries attended the event, including the Telangana Governor, Union ministers, and governors from Rajasthan and Goa. Ministers from Telangana and Gujarat also joined the ceremony.

The festival will run daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. until November 30. Visitors can book slots online, and an on-site booking facility is available for walk-ins.