Kalinjar fest to showcase Bundelkhand

Lucknow: The UP govt will organise a 3-day Kalinjar Mahotsava in Banda from Sunday to showcase Bundelkhand's rich heritage and cultural legacy.The festival will be held at Katra Kalinjar mela ground under the theme ‘Echoes of History, Soul of Culture'. Officials said the event aims to bring the region's warrior traditions, folk arts and historical consciousness into the mainstream tourism narrative of the state.Tourism and culture minister Jaiveer Singh described the mahotsava as more than a cultural celebration. "Through Kalinjar Mahotsava, we are presenting Bundelkhand's heritage before the nation and the world. The festival connects visitors with our folk traditions, music, sports and local craftsmanship while strengthening tourism and local pride," he said.The event will feature Bundeli folk dances, Alha ballads steeped in veer ras, devotional music and traditional songs. Evening performances under ‘Aaj Ki Shaam Kalinjar Ke Naam' will be held daily, with artists including Tripti Shakya, Sadho The Band, Radha Srivastava, Mamta Sharma and Raja Rencho set to perform.A sports festival will run alongside. ‘Banda Got Talent' will provide a platform for young performers from schools and colleges, while a divisional Saras mela will showcase products by women self-help groups.