Festival returns to home turf in Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta Festival, organised by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), has returned to its favourite venue. Following fervent demands from people, the MTDC has decided to shift the venue back to its original venue, the Elephanta Island Caves. The festival, which will be held on March 2-3, will witness the performances from artists in the categories of Indian classical to western fusion.
Last year, due to some logistical problems, the MTDC had organised the cultural event at the Gateway of India. It was the first time since its inception in 1989 that the festival was not held at the Elephanta Island Caves. The festival was not conducted in 2009 and 2010 due to terrorism and security issues. However, the move to shift the venue had come under sharp criticism from heritage activists and music lovers, who demanded that the festival be held at the caves only.
“This year, the festival will be held at the back of the Elephanta caves,” said Dr Jagdish Patil, managing director, MTDC. “Seating arrangement for 1,200-1,500 people has been made at the venue.”
“The MTDC has also arranged live telecast of music events for those who cannot attend the festival. Giant screens will be put at places like the Gateway of India, Worli Sea Face, Juhu Chowpatty and Carter Road, Bandra to broadcast the festival,” he added.
This year’s edition of the Elephanta Festival will witness the performances of well-known artists like Prabhakar Karekar, Shweta Pandit, Manjari Chaturvedi and Ranjit Barot.
In addition to this, the MTDC, in association with the J.J. School of Art, has also organised a drawing competition, whose theme is to paint the Elephanta Caves and statues at the location.
Renowned historian Dr G.B. Deglurkar will share his knowledge on detailing of the sculptures and caves of Elephanta Island on the guided tours of caves during the festival. Also, a noted artist, Chandrajit Yadav will be making the cave sculptures with mud during the festival.
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