Gwalior Hosts International Cultural Festival With 850 Artists From India, Abroad

Cultural exchanges can play a significant role in further strengthening diplomatic relations between India and Mongolia, Mongolian Ambassador to India Ulziit Luvsanjav said at the 21st Udbhav Utsav international cultural festival in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.

The festival's inaugural function was held at the Jiwaji Club on Saturday evening, with Luvsanjav attending as the chief guest. Organised by a private organisation, the festival began with a colourful carnival featuring around 850 artists from India and abroad, showcasing the cultural diversity and artistic traditions of participating countries and Indian states.

Artists from Kyrgyzstan, Slovakia and various Indian states presented traditional dances, folk arts and cultural performances, drawing enthusiastic responses from spectators. The carnival commenced at the Bhagwat Sahay Auditorium, with an armed forces band leading the procession while playing patriotic tunes. Artists dressed in traditional attire followed, displaying their respective cultural heritages through performances and costumes.

Luvsanjav watched the presentations and applauded the participants. Addressing the gathering, he spoke about diplomatic relations between India and Mongolia and emphasised the importance of cultural interaction in bringing people closer and strengthening bilateral ties.

Udbhav president Keshav Pandey said the organisation had travelled to 55 countries, while more than 2,500 children had participated in overseas trips facilitated by it. He said the festival offers young talent an international platform to showcase their abilities while familiarising participants with the art, traditions and cultures of different countries.

The event aims to promote cultural understanding by bringing together artists from diverse backgrounds and providing opportunities for them to exchange ideas and experiences through music, dance and folk performances.

Artists representing several countries and Indian states will continue to present dance and music performances during the festival. The 21st edition of Udbhav Utsav will continue until October 27, with further performances scheduled as part of the international cultural programme.