Every Indian city is unique and is known for a different set of traditions, culture and festivals. Nagpur is no exception! Although the Orange Capital of India celebrates most of the national festivals with immense enthusiasm, there are some festivities unique to this ancient city. These festivals not only reflects the rich culture of Nagpur but they are also reminiscent of the golden heritage of ancient India

The Kalidasa Festival in Nagpur is a renowned cultural event that commemorates the immense contribution of the famous Hindu poet Kalidasa. The two-day dance and music extravaganza showcases some of the most famous works of Kalidasa by artists across the country. The event takes place near the charming Ramtek town that finds frequent mentions in all of Kalidasa’s works.

It is also believed that the serenity and beauty of Ramtek inspired Kalidasa to pen the masterpiece of Meghdoot and other literary works.

Deem your Nagpur trip incomplete if you fail to experience its vibrant festivals. The best way to witness Maharashtra’s third largest city’s at its glorious best is to plan a trip during one of its famous festivals. Nagpur remains crowded throughout the year so make sure to book a hotel in Nagpur beforehand to avoid any last minute lodging issue. Here’s a look at the famous festivals of Nagpur that will make you fall in love with its culture and heritage:-

An ideal place to satisfy one’s craving for extraordinary works of arts, music and culture, the Orange City Craft Mela and Folk Dance Festival is a pin-hole camera to witness the artistic and cultural side of Nagpur. Artisans and artists, at this festival, come together to showcase unique traditions and heritage from different parts of the country.

Look out for the array of handicrafts, handloom and ceramic items, ornaments, furniture and other exhibits put on display at the fair and enjoy folk performances like Povada, Lavani, Poli, Tamasha, Dindi and more for an exhilarating authentic Nagpur experience.

An exclusive celebration, Marbat holds a special place in Nagpur. The festival is a great way to get a glimpse into the culture and lifestyle of Nagpurians. The locals have been observing this festival with full fervour and enthusiasm since 1885 to safeguard the city by warding off all evil influences. Nagpurians celebrate this event uniquely.

Huge processions are taken out on the streets that carry sculptures depicting evil forces. At the end of the festival, the effigies are burnt and assumed that all evil forces will die along with it. The people of Nagpur celebrate Marbat by praying to the Almighty to grant them optimism in every aspect of life, by indulging in some retail therapy and devouring on mouth-watering food.

After the procession, which goes on for several kms, the yellow and black statues meet at Nehru Putla Square before they are put on fire. People also celebrate this meeting of statues as they dance and shower flower petals on the statues. The statues at the celebrations are made by Shende family, which has been making them for three generations now. Ganpatrao Shende, after whom his son Bhimaji Shende took over, prepared the statues in 1885. During the celebration, people gather to address various social problems. Few locals, speaking about the occasion, once told ANI, “Kali and Pivli are believed to be sisters who are made to meet each other on this day. While some believe that the festival has some historical value others consider Kali and Pivli as deities. Locals raise a famous slogan during this festival ‘Rograi gheun ja ge marbat,’ which means ‘rid us of diseases.’ A lot of people believe that the Kali and Pilvi marbat will make their wishes come true during this festival. It also related to history during the British Raj.”