Karnataka’s is celebrating its famous Hampi Festival. As January 2010 marks the 500th anniversary of the Vijayanagar King Sri Krishnadevaraya’s ascension to the throne, the Karnataka State Government is holding a series of events to commemorate the glory of this World Heritage site. The celebrations will culminate in a grand cultural extravaganza from January 27-29.
The Hampi Utsav or Hampi Festival, celebrated since the times of the Vijayanagar reign, attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. The celebrations include dance, drama, music, fireworks, puppet shows and spectacular processions, all combining to recreate the grandeur of the bygone era. Renowned artists converge here to display their talent and pay homage to this magnificent attraction. The lanes of Hampi come alive with decorated elephants, horses and riders reflecting the glory of the past. Vocalists, traditional dance artists entertain the guests and tourists at different venues. Stalls displaying exquisite and elaborate craft and craftsmanship delight shoppers.
Some of this year’s special attractions include ‘Janapada Kalavahini’ a concert of folk songs, ‘Jumbo Savari’ a grand elephant march in Hospet and a Light and sound show with special lighting of monuments across the 15 km of the Hampi ruins on the banks of Tungabadra.

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