The grand lawns of Rashtrapati Bhavan came alive with color and culture as President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the second edition of Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav on March 5, 2025. This festival is a celebration of India’s incredible diversity, bringing together the artistic, culinary, and cultural traditions of different regions under one roof. In this edition, the spotlight is on the rich heritage of Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry.
Addressing the gathering, the President expressed her joy at witnessing such a vibrant representation of South India’s traditions. With nearly 500 artisans and weavers showcasing their craft, she emphasized how festivals like these not only highlight India’s artistic heritage but also uplift those who dedicate their lives to preserving these traditions. She encouraged visitors to immerse themselves in the experience, to appreciate the intricacy of the crafts, and to support the artisans who bring them to life.
The Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav is structured as a series of seven festivals, each dedicated to a different region of India—North-East, South, North, East, West, Central, and the Union Territories. By curating distinct editions, the festival ensures that every corner of the country receives the recognition it deserves, allowing people to explore the diverse threads that weave together the fabric of Indian identity.
For the next four days, visitors to Rashtrapati Bhavan will get to experience the artistic brilliance of South India through cultural performances, handloom and handicraft exhibitions, literary discussions, interactive workshops, and a variety of traditional cuisines. The festival is not just a visual and sensory delight but also an important platform for artisans, performers, and writers to gain recognition and reach a wider audience.
The significance of such initiatives extends beyond entertainment. They serve as a bridge, connecting different cultures and fostering a sense of national unity. At a time when modernization often overshadows traditional art forms, events like these remind people of the value of their heritage and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
The festival is open to the public from March 6 to 9, 2025, from 10 AM to 8 PM, with entry through Gate No. 35 of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Visitors can book their passes online, making it easier for more people to take part in this celebration of India’s artistic and cultural wealth. For those who attend, Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav promises to be more than just an exhibition—it is an experience of India’s soul, captured through its traditions, crafts, and artistic expressions.