BRICS Cultural Festival in Bhopal resonates with message of global peace and cultural unity: over 125 artists present 12 dance forms
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that the BRICS nations are bound together not merely by economic and political partnerships, but by a shared commitment to culture, peace, mutual respect and inclusive development.
Shekhawat highlighted the historical and cultural significance of Madhya Pradesh while addressing the BRICS Cultural Festival at Ravindra Bhavan in Bhopal during the Third Meeting of the BRICS Ministers of Culture. He said the State has, for centuries, served as a confluence of civilisations, ideas, faiths and artistic traditions.
Referring to the prehistoric rock shelters of Bhimbetka, the serenity of Sanchi, the magnificent temples of Khajuraho and the rich traditions of Madhya Pradesh's vibrant tribal communities, the Union Minister said the State beautifully reflects the continuity of India's civilizational journey.
BRICS Cultural Festival celebrates the ideals of world peace
The BRICS Cultural Festival celebrated the ideals of world peace, cultural dialogue and global harmony through music, dance and artistic performances. Renowned artists from India and other BRICS countries showcased the spirit of unity in diversity through captivating performances.
The 32-minute special musical presentation began with an invocation of "Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah", followed by "Colours of Indian Music", which beautifully blended the rich traditions of Hindustani and Carnatic classical music.
The highlight of the evening was the "BRICS Peace Song", in which artists from BRICS nations conveyed the universal message of peace, friendship and global harmony through their respective musical traditions. The programme concluded with the collective performances of "Peace to All, Harmony to All" and "Crescendo of Unity."
A Unique Confluence of BRICS Musical Traditions
The BRICS Peace Song featured musical traditions from Belarus, Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. The Indian choir added a unique cultural dimension by rendering "Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah" in the language of each participating country, symbolising cultural dialogue and global unity.
'Amritasya Madhya Pradesh' Showcases the State's Cultural Heritage
The Madhya Pradesh Department of Culture presented a spectacular 35-minute dance ballet titled "Amritasya Madhya Pradesh," portraying the State's cultural, spiritual, historical and natural heritage. The performance vividly depicted UNESCO World Heritage Sites, episodes associated with Lord Shri Ram and Lord Shri Krishna, Mahakaleshwar, Omkareshwar, Raja Bhoj, Bhopal, Maa Narmada and the cultural and spiritual significance of Simhastha-2028.
Over 125 Artists Present 12 Dance Forms
More than 125 artists participated in the production, presenting a vibrant blend of 12 dance forms, including Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Manipuri, contemporary dance, martial arts and the traditional folk dances of Madhya Pradesh, such as Gond, Baiga, Gudumbaja, Matki, Badhai and Baredi. The production was choreographed by renowned choreographer Sushri Maitreyi Pahadi, while the lighting design was created by Anoop "Bunty" Joshi.
Traditional Textiles of Madhya Pradesh Take Centre Stage
One of the major attractions of the evening was a fashion presentation celebrating Madhya Pradesh's traditional textiles and prints. During the musical rendition of "Chadariya Jheeni Re Jheeni," a specially designed 150-foot-long lehenga was showcased. The presentation, directed by Shri Mumtaz Khan, beautifully highlighted the State's rich textile heritage.
Festival Reinforces the Spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'
The BRICS Cultural Festival 2026 powerfully expressed the Indian philosophy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" and "Unity in Diversity" through music, dance and the arts. The festival reinforced cultural diplomacy while promoting world peace, cultural dialogue, international cooperation, mutual respect and appreciation of shared cultural heritage among BRICS nations.