Ahilyabai Holkar

Footsteps Across India

Ahilyabai Holkar

Footsteps Across India

This year’s Sacred River Festival is dedicated to the memory of the great Queen Ahilyabai Holkar in the year of her 300th birth anniversary.
Three centuries after her momentous life, her memory continues to inspire reverence as a beacon of social harmony, good governance and holistic leadership.
Her influence and munificence were spread across various parts of India, and at Sacred River Festival 2026, we have brought together artists from regions that benefitted from her vision.

Knowing The Artists

Baba Gurmeet Singh Ji and Group

He will present Gurbani Kirtan with his accompanying musicians. Rooted in Indian classical ragas and supported by harmonium and tabla, the music creates a deeply meditative and devotional atmosphere. Drawn from the Guru Granth Sahib, the kirtan carries a calming, contemplative energy beyond the meaning of the words. Open to all, it is experienced with simple observances of respect such as head covering and seated humility.

Kailash Sisodiya and Group

They will present the traditional Bhil Bhagoriya Nritya, a vibrant folk dance of the Bhil tribe. Known for its rhythmic energy and acrobatic movements, the dance carries deep social and cultural significance. Performed by five male and five female dancers, it is accompanied by a lively ensemble of traditional musicians, bringing the spirit of the community to life.

Meenakshi Medhi

She will present Sattriya, the classical dance tradition of Assam that emerged from Vaishnavite monasteries. Through graceful movement and rhythmic expression, the form narrates stories of Lord Krishna. Gentle music and rich Assamese textiles lend the performance a sense of devotion and quiet dignity.

Jyoti Shrivastava and Group

They will present an Odissi performance centred on the life of Ahilyabai Holkar. Known for its grace and sculptural beauty, the piece unfolds as a dance-biography reflecting the queen’s integrity and strength. Conceptualised and choreographed by Jyoti, it is performed by her with four accompanying dancers.

Smt. Bhuri Bai

She will conduct a Bhil Painting workshop at Ahilya School. One of the pioneering artists of the Bhil tradition, she will share her practice and storytelling through this indigenous art form. She will be assisted by her granddaughter, a painter and Masters student of Fine Arts

Vidushi Kamala Shankar

She will present a Hindustani classical concert on the Shankar slide guitar. Among the foremost exponents of this instrument, she is the first woman to achieve preeminence in this tradition. Playing in the gayaki ang (vocal style), her music brings out a deeply expressive and melodic mood.

Shri Rudra Shankar Mishra

He will present Kathak in the Banaras gharana tradition. A dynamic young dancer and disciple of the eminent Mataprasad Mishra of Varanasi, he is known for powerful footwork and striking pirouettes. Accompanied by his musicians from Varanasi, his performance draws on stories of Kashi Vishwanath and the spirit of Lord Shiva.