Moscow: Vibrant dances, patriotic songs, and soul-stirring devotional chants lit up Manezhnaya Square on Thursday as the Festival of Bharat continued to draw large crowds in the heart of the Russian capital.

“A soulful start to the day with devotional and patriotic melodies in praise of Bharat. Spiritual hymns, Russian tributes and Hindi patriotic songs echoed a message of peace and pride. Vikaas Bhi, Viraasat Bhi! Development and Heritage together!” the Indian Embassy in Russia posted on X.

The event also paid a dazzling tribute to Indian cinema, with Bollywood-inspired performances pulsating with colour and rhythm, captivating Muscovites and visitors alike. Held from July 5–13, the Bharat Utsav immersed attendees in India’s timeless traditions through masterclasses, folk and classical performances, and hands-on cultural experiences. The event is organised in partnership with the Moscow Government and the Indian Embassy, spotlighting the soul of Indian heritage abroad.

The square was transformed into an Indian-inspired garden, complete with lush greenery, traditional motifs, and serene relaxation areas evocative of a spiritual retreat. A standout moment came with the Jivan Nritya Group’s performance on the ‘Family of Gods: Shiva, Parvathi, and Ganesha’, a visual spectacle of classical choreography and divine symbolism. Cultural immersion continued daily with art, cuisine, and music at the fore.

Visitors also explored inner peace through Raja Yoga Meditation, an ancient path of self-realisation that fosters harmony by connecting mind and spirit. This meditative offering drew keen participation from audiences curious about India’s spiritual legacy.

Among the classical dance showcases were elegant Kuchipudi and expressive Kathak renditions, alongside lesser-seen forms like Singri and graceful Bharatanatyam and Odissi. Regional songs in Maithili and Tamil added depth to the cultural palette.

A ‘Discover India’ quiz and a crafts fair—featuring Indian ceramics, textiles, carvings, and paintings—further enriched the interactive appeal of the festival. “Interest in Indian culture among both Muscovites and city visitors remains exceptionally strong. This was demonstrated in June when VDNKh hosted 7,000 participants for International Yoga Day. We’re delighted to now present another large-scale cultural initiative arranged on behalf of the Moscow Government that further strengthens these ties,” said Bulat Nurmukhanov, Deputy Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee.

The Festival of Bharat is part of the Summer in Moscow series, which includes over 1,000 festivals, cultural showcases, and workshops celebrating global diversity in Russia’s capital.