The serene and historic Rashtrapati Nilayam in Bolaram, Secunderabad, has come alive with an eclectic mix of sights, sounds, and flavors as it hosts the Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav 2024. The 164-year-old heritage site, often referred to as the President’s winter residence, is currently home to this vibrant festival that showcases the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India’s northeastern region. The eight-day event promises a spectacular journey through the traditions, artistry, and culinary delights of eight northeastern states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura.
Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav (BKM), jointly organized by Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, the Ministry of Development of the Northeast Region, and the Ministry of Culture, offers an unparalleled glimpse into the vibrant culture of Northeast India. It is no wonder that this first-ever edition dedicated solely to the northeastern states has drawn the attention of a large number of visitors curious to explore the region’s cultural tapestry, eclectic food, and hospitable people.
As visitors enter, they are greeted by a Meitei house near the Manipur pavilion, teeming with people taking photographs. The atmosphere is charged with the melodious strains of the brangshi, a traditional flute used by the Rabha community, accompanied by the resonant sounds of the taal and the khol, providing a backdrop to the celebration. The pavilions of each state are designed to be airy and spacious, equipped with jumbo fans and desert coolers to ensure visitor comfort.
The festival is a testament to the President’s vision of transforming the President’s estates into buzzing cultural hubs. Launched by the Rashtrapati Bhavan in 2024, the Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav aims to celebrate and promote the rich diversity that India has to offer. According to Rakesh Raj, a businessman who is shopping from the Nagaland stall, “I always wondered who crafted all these beautiful wooden pieces I see on Instagram pages of the State. Here, I shopped for salad bowls, cups, and tongs, all made of wood and bamboo. The finesse will surprise everyone and the affordable rates are an add-on.”
Strolling through the event, visitors have the chance to witness Northeastern artisans demonstrating their craftsmanship, whether it’s through weaving, wood carving, jewelry assembling, or bell metal utensil-making. These live demonstrations offer a hands-on understanding of the intricate skills involved in creating these artifacts.
. Each state pavilion sells handicrafts and handlooms unique to their region, making it an ideal shopping destination for those looking to take a piece of the Northeast home with them.
The festival also features a Geographical Indicator (GI) product zone, an immersive digital selfie area, and a technology-enabled youth engagement zone that collectively aim to attract and engage younger visitors. At the food stalls, traditional Northeastern cuisine is on full display, with dishes from Assam, Nagaland, Sikkim, Meghalaya, and Mizoram being served. Ranjit Baruah of Aromica Tea, who is showcasing a special tea collection, commends the arrangement: “We couldn’t have asked for a better setup. The response from the visitors is overwhelming. At every stall, there are inquiries about our crafts, silks, and food.”
The enthusiasm and curiosity of visitors, particularly among college students, are palpable. Dimitry R, who manages a stall in the Nagaland pavilion, notes, “The questions they ask about our craft show they are all interested in knowing about the region. Many of them say they want to travel, but they haven’t been able to do so for various reasons. Surprisingly, no one asked me about safety concerns about the regions. Many years ago, the only question we faced was ‘how safe is the Northeast to travel?’”
The Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav 2024 at Rashtrapati Nilayam, Secunderabad, is open to the public until October 6, from 10 am to 8 pm. This immersive experience not only serves as a window into the northeastern region’s kaleidoscopic culture but also underscores the unity in diversity that defines India.
This event has truly transformed Rashtrapati Nilayam into a microcosm of Northeast India, inviting one and all to experience and celebrate a region that is often underrepresented in mainstream cultural narratives. The Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav 2024 stands as a shining example of how cultural festivals can bridge gaps, create awareness, and foster a sense of collective identity and appreciation.
