Moscow Concludes The Festival of India, Bharat Utsav with Over 800,000 Visitors

The Festival of India, Bharat Utsav, has concluded in Moscow, attracting an impressive audience of 825,000 across more than 500 events, featuring over 150 invited artists and artisans. The festival took place from July 5 to 13, on Manezhnaya Square, a central venue as part of the Summer in Moscow programme. Indian craftsmen held creative workshops for all attendees, offering insight into the rich culture and traditions of India. The event garnered significant attention from both residents and visitors.

A diverse programme was presented, with over 500 activities on Manezhnaya Square, including performances by more than 150 artists and the opening of ten activity zones. Multiple Indian states, including Delhi, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Rajasthan, Kashmir, Nagaland, Gujarat, Odisha, and others, played a pivotal role in the organisation and execution of the festival.

As part of the large-scale Summer in Moscow initiative, visitors enjoyed introductory yoga classes and Hindi language sessions, experienced traditional dance forms such as Kathak and Odissi, immersed themselves in Bollywood culture, sampled authentic Indian cuisine, and captured memorable moments in colourful photo zones. Attendees also dressed in saris, applied henna, learned traditional Indian painting, and engaged in numerous other cultural activities.

Dance performances and concerts showcased India's diverse cultural heritage, with visitors gaining insight into the Indian epic traditions, regional art forms, and ceremonial costumes. Highlights included meditation workshops, lectures, and yoga sessions led by representatives from Russian studios and the Indian Embassy’s Cultural Centre, teaching asanas, breathing techniques, and movement philosophies.

The Indian goods market offered a range of delights, including aromatic essential oils from Kannauj, premium teas, artistic wood carvings from Jodhpur, Rajasthan’s famous blue ceramics, and Kashmiri pashmina shawls. Culinary experiences ranged from vibrant vegetarian dishes to spicy meat delicacies at the food court, with visitors able to taste mangoes from India and explore regional cuisine, all while enjoying fragrant masala tea.

According to the Moscow City Tourism Committee, approximately half of last year's international visitors expressed a desire to return to Moscow. India ranks second among non-CIS countries for tourist arrivals, highlighting the significance of Indian tourism’s contribution to the city’s economy and international image.

Data shows that 59 per cent of Indian travellers prefer Indian cuisine, often due to vegetarian or cultural preferences. Furthermore, one in four Indian tourists are considering Moscow as a travel destination, viewing it as more welcoming than other European cities. The Festival of India has significantly strengthened cultural ties and enhanced Moscow’s appeal as a major international tourist destination.

The Moscow City Tourism Committee continues to promote the capital as a key international destination, organising business missions, participating in industry exhibitions, and developing projects aimed at attracting foreign visitors.

The Summer in Moscow festival remains the flagship event of the season, featuring an array of vibrant charity, cultural, and sporting activities across the city districts, most of which are free of charge. Now in its second year, the programme promises an even more dynamic season with new, innovative entertainment ideas complementing traditional festivals and events.