Lucknow, February 14, 2026:

Positioning Bundelkhand as the heritage heartland of North India, UP Govt will organise the three day Kalinjar Mahotsav 2026 from February 15 to 17 in Banda. Set against the historic backdrop of the majestic Kalinjar Fort, the festival will unfold at Katra Kalinjar Mela Ground under the theme ‘Echoes of History, Soul of Culture’, celebrating the region’s rich civilisational legacy, folk traditions and artistic excellence.

Organised jointly by the District Tourism and Culture Council and the district administration, the Mahotsav is being seen as part of a larger effort to bring Bundelkhand’s historical consciousness, warrior traditions and folk culture into the mainstream tourism narrative of Uttar Pradesh.

Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said that Kalinjar Mahotsav is not just a cultural event but a statement of identity for Bundelkhand. He noted that the fort of Kalinjar, associated with valorous tales, spiritual heritage and architectural grandeur, symbolises the enduring spirit of the region. “Through Kalinjar Mahotsav, we are presenting Bundelkhand’s heritage before the nation and the world. This festival connects visitors with our folk traditions, music, sports and local craftsmanship while strengthening tourism and local pride,” he said.

Over three days, the festival will feature Bundeli folk dances, Alha ballads filled with veer ras, devotional music and traditional folk songs, bringing alive the cultural rhythm of the region. The segment titled ‘Aaj Ki Shaam Kalinjar Ke Naam’ will host grand evening performances from 6 pm to 10 pm daily. On February 15, Tripti Shakya and group will present a musical evening, followed by Sadho The Band and Radha Srivastava and group on February 16. The concluding night on February 17 will feature noted singer Mamta Sharma and Raja Rencho, promising a memorable finale.

Encouraging youth participation, the Mahotsav will also host a Sports Festival from 8 am to 4 pm each day, including Kho Kho on February 15, Kabaddi on February 16 and a traditional Dangal on February 17. The initiative seeks to celebrate Bundelkhand’s sporting traditions alongside its artistic heritage.

‘Banda Got Talent’ will provide a platform for emerging local performers from schools and colleges, with daily sessions from 1 pm to 3 pm. The final day will showcase district level winners of the Cultural Festival 2025 26, highlighting grassroots creativity and community participation.

Adding to the vibrancy, a divisional Saras Mela under the NRLM will feature exhibitions by women self help groups, displaying locally crafted products and traditional goods. Departmental stalls, conferences and thematic discussions will further integrate heritage, livelihood and tourism into a unified narrative of regional growth.

Additional Chief Secretary Tourism, Culture and Religious Affairs Amrit Abhijat said that Kalinjar Mahotsav 2026 reflects the state government’s commitment to reviving Bundelkhand’s historic and cultural identity. He pointed out that Kalinjar Fort was prominently showcased in the Republic Day tableau this year, signalling its rising national and global recognition. “Our continuous effort is to establish Bundelkhand’s iconic heritage sites firmly on the national and international tourism map. Kalinjar Mahotsav will play a vital role in boosting tourism, empowering the local economy and preserving cultural identity,” he said.

With history etched in its stone walls and folk memories alive in its songs, Kalinjar Mahotsav 2026 aims to transform Bundelkhand from a regional reference into a celebrated heritage destination, inviting visitors from across Uttar Pradesh and beyond to witness the living soul of India’s cultural heartland.