Lokrang Festival 2025: An extravaganza of traditional music, dance & art

Lokrang has been an essential platform for preserving and promoting rural culture

Amongst the numerous celebrations marking the Republic Day that are being planned across India is an annual extravaganza of art and culture, that is organised in Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh. The Lokrang Festival, organised by the Directorate of Culture and the Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum, is a five-day cultural extravaganza that showcases the vibrant tribal and folk traditions of India through a variety of performances and exhibitions.

It is an extraordinary celebration that highlights the state’s rich cultural heritage, traditions, and values, offering visitors a chance to experience and learn about its diverse folklore and arts.

Over the past 20 years, the event has become synonymous with showcasing India’s indigenous arts, including classical and tribal dance forms, folk music and exquisite handicrafts.

“The Lokrang Festival has grown significantly since its inception, both in terms of scale and diversity. Initially focused on showcasing local folk traditions, it has now expanded to incorporate global cultural elements while retaining its Madhya Pradesh roots. Themes like sustainability, heritage preservation, and inclusivity have become central over time,” Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary, Tourism and Culture, Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board tells India & You.

According to the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, the festival provides a dedicated platform for artisans, performers and cultural groups to showcase their skills, ensuring fair remuneration and networking opportunities. Sustainability is ensured through year-round support programs, skill development workshops, and efforts to integrate their crafts into broader tourism initiatives further adding to the state’s economic growth.

“Lokrang Festival has significantly boosted the local economy by attracting large crowds, increasing demand for accommodations, and generating revenue through crafts and food sales. The spotlight on local artisans and performers provides direct economic benefits while enhancing their visibility on larger platforms,” he adds.

This year, the festival will be a grand celebration of India’s diverse cultural tapestry, with over 50,000 visitors expected with a daily footfall of over 25,000 visitors with a majority being domestic travellers from across India.

Set in the heart of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh’s vibrant capital, Lokrang 2025 promises to be a truly unforgettable experience, bringing together artists, performers, and cultural enthusiasts from all corners of the world, providing the visitors an unparalleled opportunity for cultural exchange, featuring performances of folk dance, traditional music, and art that reflect the region’s unique heritage.

Lokrang Festival has significantly boosted the local economy by attracting large crowds, increasing demand for accommodations (Photo: MP Tourism)

“This year’s Lokrang Festival is dedicated to the valour and legacy of Rani Durgavati, emphasising the historical and cultural pride of Madhya Pradesh. We aim to highlight themes of bravery, heritage preservation, and the role of women in history.Visitors can expect vibrant performances, curated exhibitions, and storytelling sessions that encapsulate the spirit of this extraordinary leader while celebrating our diverse folk and tribal traditions,” says Shukla.

Other highlights include Aakar, an exhibition dedicated to promoting traditional crafts and supporting local artisans, and Ullas, which offers a range of engaging activities for children, including storytelling, painting exhibitions, and puppet shows. The festival also includes Swad, a culinary journey through India’s diverse regional flavours and Lokwarta, a curated collection of books on culture, art, and literature.

Other highlights include Aakar, an exhibition dedicated to promoting traditional crafts and supporting local artisans (Photo: MP Tourism)

Beyond celebrating India’s cultural diversity, Lokrang aligns with the goals of sustainable tourism, community engagement, and cultural conservation in Madhya Pradesh, says the government. Each year, the state government actively promotes the festival to attract visitors, boost tourism, and highlight the country’s vibrant cultural tapestry.

“Domestically, we leverage platforms like digital media, regional TV, and partnerships with travel operators. Internationally, we collaborate with Indian embassies, cultural forums, and tourism exhibitions to position the Lokrang Festival as a must-visit event. The celebration of Rani Durgavati’s 500th birth anniversary is a cornerstone of this year’s promotion, aligning with Madhya Pradesh’s reputation as a treasure trove for history and culture enthusiasts,” says Shukla.

“To draw international and out-of-state visitors, we’ve integrated the festival into broader tourism campaigns emphasising Madhya Pradesh as a clean, green, and culturally rich destination. Collaborations with embassies, travel influencers, and international cultural bodies ensure global visibility. The festival’s unique storytelling, offers a compelling narrative for global audiences,” he adds.