Bihar To Host Rajgir Festival From November 29

A melange of cultural delights that aim to showcase Bihar&rsquos history, religious fervour and artistic prowess, the Rajgir Mahotsav is set to be held this year from November 29. The internationally-acclaimed three-day bonanza, which highlights the heritage of both Nalanda and Rajgir, will be held at the Rajgir International Convention Centre (RICC). 

History of the festival

Called the Rajgir Nritya Mahotsav, the festival was first organised in Bihar&rsquos Sone Bhandar in 1986 by the then Union tourism minister H K L Bhagat and Bihar CM Bindeshwari Dubey. Till 2016, the Rajgir Mahotsav used to be organized at Quila Maidan before the venue was moved to RICC in 2017 after ASI refused to hand over the Quila grounds. 

What is in store for attendees

While the names of the artists for this year have not been announced yet, reports suggest that a seven-day &lsquoGram Shri Mela&rsquo, aimed at promoting rural art, will be organised at the Mahotsav, in addition to a food mela, book fair, agriculture mela, and fun zone. The report quotes the Nalanda DM, who has also announced &lsquotonga&rsquo and &lsquopalki&rsquo decoration competitions as well painting contests and Sadbhavna March during the festival days. 

The Mahotsav also acts as a platform for local artists to showcase their talents through dance and music performances. Rajgir Mahotsav, which has also found international acclaim, has since seen performances by esteemed artists such as Pankaj Udaas, Alka Yagnik, Hema Malini, Nida Fazli, Talat Aziz, Ghulam Ali and Birju Maharaj.

Rajgir

Situated in the Nalanda district, Rajgir (which loosely translates to &lsquoroyal house&rsquo, was the first seat of power in the kingdom of Magadha. Even today, the town draws believers from all corners and is a site of great importance for both Jain and Buddhist faiths.    

When here, head to Ajatshatru Fort, or Jarasandh ka Akhara, which was the site of a battle in the Mahabharata. There is also a Shanti Stupa in the town, which offers peace and tranquillity.