Festival of India

Overview

Welcome to the 21st annual Festival of India, uptown at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center & Tryon Street. As you enter Tryon Street and approach the Belk Theater, you will feel transported to India by the beat of the music and the aroma of food. 

Inside the theater, you will be mesmerized by dazzling dances choreographed and performed by local artists, with their captivating graceful movements, breathtaking costumes and pulsating rhythms. The program will include a rich assortment of classical Indian dance forms like Kathak and Kuchipudi, folk dances like Rajasthani folk dances, as well as contemporary dance styles like fusion and Bollywood. The seductive and inviting rhythms of the vibrant ‘Bhangra’ from the northern state of Punjab are certain to draw you in and get you tapping your feet.

Special exhibits in the foyer will introduce you to the traditional colorful Indian Saree that you can actually wear and snap a picture in. The decorative Henna body painting with its intricate patterns is a delightful novelty and an enormous attraction, especially for children. Art exhibits in the Founders Hall will display classical Indian and contemporary Indian-American fusion art by many of our talented local artists.

During breaks between the Belk dance performances, head out to Tryon Street to taste the irresistible food and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The exotic aromas will lead you to explore a great variety of lip-smacking foods and flavors and choosing from the interesting menus will be a memorable adventure for many. You will also experience the rich diversity and cultural heritage of India from the large display of fabrics, handicrafts, brass & woodwork and magnificent jewelry for sale at the souvenir stalls.

The best way to summarize the festival is to paraphrase a comment we have heard repeatedly during the festival: “This has been a great opportunity for me as a Charlottean to get a taste of living, touring, experiencing and understanding a bit more about India over a fun weekend, without ever leaving Charlotte.”

Come join us for a unique fun filled weekend!

www.indiafestival.iacofcarolinas.org