Home » Festivals In Karnataka  »  Hampi Festival

Hampi Festival

Hampi Utsav

About:

Hampi Utsav, also known as the Vijaya Utsav, Festival of Hampi has been celebrated from the times of the Vijayanagar reign. This event has been reiterated as the "Nada Utsava" by the Government of Karnataka. Hampi being a World Heritage Site is a international tourist spot . This festival is attributes to the mega cultural extravaganza, held from 3rd November to 5th November every year.Renowned artistes all over India come forward in bringing the grandiose days of the Vijayanagar Period to the present day . The rich culture of Kannadigas in the fields of dance, music and art thus showcased complement the beautifully carved ruins of Hampi .

The Hampi festival is a grand spectacle of dance, drama and music amidst the ancient ruins of Hampi, the majestic capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Organized by the Government of Karnataka, the Hampi festival is held every year in the first week of November. It is also known as the Vijaya Utsav.During this gala event, the quaint life of Hampi reverberates with dance, drama, music, fireworks, puppet shows, and spectacular processions all combining to recreate the legacy of its royal heritage. On the eve of the Hampi festival, artists from different parts of India congregate here to weave a magical blend of art and culture.

Decorated elephants, horses and men dressed in the military fashion of the Golden Era, are posted underneath the red, yellow, blue and white cloth "Gopuras" are posted along the lanes of Hampi. The two kilometer path near the Virupaaksha temple which was known as the Raja Marga has been decorated as the Vijayanagar theme. Traders offered tokens of "gold coins" and "diamonds" recreating the once world famous open trade in diamonds, gemsn and gold of the Golden Era. Classical dance exponents and classical vocalists are set to entertain the guests with their brilliant performances in five avenues.

Location info:

Address:Hampi Utsav,Vijayanagar reign,Karnataka,India
District: Vijayanagar
Best time to visit: First week of November

Climate/Weather:

During the summer season (March to May) the temperature reaches a maximum of 40℃.During winter day temperature is less than 30℃ and night temperature can go as low as 12℃.

History:

Hampi formed one of the cores of the capital of the Vijayanagara empire from 1336 to 1565. It was destroyed by Muslim sultans. Hampi was chosen because of its strategic location, bounded by the torrential Tungabhadra river on one side and surrounded by defensible hills on the other three sides.The site is of great importance in terms of architecture and historical significance. The demography is abundant with large stones which have been utilized to make larger than life statues of Hindu deities. One can see a structure of historic importance every quarter of a mile.

Importance:

Janapada Kalavahini :a concert of folk songs is a special attraction introduced this year festival.

Jumbo Savari :similar to the Dasara elephant march is held at Hospet town. The Howdah in Panchaloha( made of 5 metals), from the Vijayanagar Empire is being used.

Method of Celebration:

Dance:
Organized during the month of October and November, Hampi festival is one of the major tourist attractions of Karnataka, a southern state of India. The festival, which features an scintillating performances of dance, drama and music, is organized amidst the rocks and ruins that date back to hundreds of years.

drama:
The light and sound show by the Song and Drama Division of Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, heritage walk, and "janapada kalavahini", would be the special attraction this year.Karnataka is the abode of rich art, culuture and heritage. The Government of Karnataka has adopted a tradition of celebrating 'Nada Utsava' throughout the state, in order to rejuvenate and promote this rich culture and heritage and to inculcate the spirit and joyous feelings and respect about our heritage among the common man.

Culture of Festivities:

Hampi Festival or Vijaya Utsav is one of the most outstanding festivals in the state of Karnataka .In this festival people are so full of joy and happiness that the entire ambiance becomes colorful and lively.Hampi Festival in Karnataka is celebrated in the city of Hampi in the months of October as well as November. This celebration is one of dance, music and drama. It is celebrated by each and everyone in the middle of hundred years old rocks and ruins.

How to reach?

Nearest Railway Station: Hospet railway station
Nearest Airport:Bangalore city International airport
Road Transport: Pattadakal is connected by road to Aihole (20 kms), Badami (22 kms) and Bangalore (495 kms).

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Hotel Malligi Tourist Home:143/6 Jambunath Rd.,Hospet,Karnataka,India,ph:08394 228101

SS Hotel:Sandur, Bellary, Karnataka,India,Ph:008395-260780

Help Line/Phone Number:

Police Station:100
Nearest Hospital:Government Hospital:Hospet, Bellary, Karnataka,India
Society/Community Phone Number:
Link:www.karnataka.com