Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Inaugurates ‘Kala Gram’ at Maha Kumbh 2025

Prayagraj:  Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, inaugurated the Indian Cultural Heritage Center ‘Kala Gram’ in the Nagvasuki area at the Maha Kumbh Mela, covering over 10 acres in Sector 7.

Addressing the press during the event, Minister Shekhawat described the Kumbh Mela as a grand celebration of India’s cultural and spiritual diversity, one that showcases India’s rich heritage and unity to the world. He emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this event will present India’s power, potential, and magnificence on the global stage.

Minister Shekhawat highlighted that the Kumbh Mela is one of the largest gatherings in the world, and with the auspicious Purnima (full moon) marking its start, this divine congregation will reflect the vast diversity and unity of India.

Efforts for Global Recognition

The minister mentioned that the Ministry of Culture has taken special efforts to give the Kumbh global recognition. Over 1.5 million foreign tourists are expected to visit the Kumbh this year. For these international visitors, the Ministry of Tourism has set up a tent city offering facilities such as Ayurveda, yoga, and Panchakarma.

Kala Gram is expected to be one of the key attractions of Maha Kumbh 2025. The center will feature the stage performance of the four Dhams, the grand entrance to the 12 Jyotirlingas, an exhibition on the eternal and unbroken Kumbh, and seven regional cultural pavilions showcasing India’s cultural diversity. It will also provide a deep cultural experience with exhibitions of India’s craftsmanship by over 230 master artisans. Visitors will also experience the rich flavors of Indian cuisine at food stalls representing different states of the country, alongside vibrant cultural performances by over 14,630 artists.

Promoting Tourism

Minister Shekhawat urged the media to use the Kumbh Mela as a platform to present India’s cultural and spiritual unity to the world. He also announced the launch of a toll-free helpline, 1800111363, offering guidance in 10 regional languages for visitors.

For devotees wishing to explore other significant religious destinations like Ayodhya, Kashi, and Mathura, air travel arrangements have been made.

Gratitude to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath

Shekhawat also expressed his gratitude to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for his leadership, which has played a pivotal role in making the Kumbh Mela grand and divine.

Kala Gram as a Showcase of India’s Cultural Diversity

Kala Gram is a platform that brings together artists, craftsmen, and cultural performers from across India to display their extraordinary talents and ancient traditions under one roof. Over the course of 45 days of the Maha Kumbh, Kala Gram will offer immersive experiences in themes like Ganga Vataran (descent of the Ganges) and Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean). Visitors can witness exquisite displays of craftsmanship, performances by classical and folk artists, and even stargazing opportunities through special astronomical sessions. There will also be selfie points for children and youth. Kala Gram aims to keep India’s folk arts, culture, and traditions alive and vibrant.

Regional Pavilions at Kala Gram

Each regional cultural center has designed thematic pavilions showcasing local craftsmanship and arts. For example:

  • The North Zone Cultural Center (NZCC) will feature the Daksheswar Mahadev Temple, Haridwar, with handcrafted wooden sculptures, brass Shiv Lingams, and traditional woolen shawls.
  • The West Zone Cultural Center (WZCC) will highlight the Brahma Temple, Pushkar, with exhibits of terracotta pottery, traditional Rajasthani puppets, and miniature paintings.
  • The East Zone Cultural Center (EZCC) will present the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Kolkata, with displays of terracotta sculptures, Bengali Kantha-embroidered sarees, and jute crafts.
  • The South Zone Cultural Center (SZCC) will showcase the Adi Kumbeshwar Temple, Kumbakonam, with exhibits of brass lamps, Tanjore paintings, and handwoven silk textiles.

In addition to the regional pavilions, local delicacies and dishes from Prayagraj will also be a key attraction for visitors.

Unity in Diversity at Cultural Maha Kumbh

The Cultural Maha Kumbh will begin on January 12 and offer a vibrant display of India’s artistic diversity. Over 14,632 artists, including Padma and SNA awardees, along with emerging talents, will perform at various stages across the Kumbh site. These performances will feature everything from folk dances and classical music to entertaining celebrity shows. Daily events will be held from 11:00 AM to 7:30 PM at Kala Gram, with additional performances in other pavilions from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Craftsmen and Culinary Experience

To promote local products, 84 craftsmen and 14 culinary experts from different regional cultural centers will set up stalls at the Kumbh, displaying their exquisite works and authentic regional cuisines. Additionally, 14 craftsmen and 7 culinary experts from NCZCC, Prayagraj, will also participate.

Star Artists at Ganga Pavilion

The Ganga Pavilion, located on Triveni Marg, will host 31 star artists who will entertain the audience with their performances, representing diverse cultural traditions from Mumbai, Manipur, Delhi, Bhubaneswar, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and more.

With the grand opening of Kala Gram and a series of cultural events, Maha Kumbh 2025 is set to become a global cultural phenomenon, uniting people from all walks of life in celebration of India’s spiritual and artistic heritage.

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