Hampi Utsav 2026: A Grand Cultural Celebration Announced for Historic Capital
District Minister BZ Zameer Ahmed Khan has officially announced the eagerly awaited Hampi Utsav-2026, a three-day cultural festival set to take place from February 13 to 15 in Hampi, the historic capital of the Vijayanagara empire. The announcement was made during a press conference held in Hosapete on Wednesday, where the minister detailed the extensive preparations and special attractions planned for this year's event.
Inauguration and Leadership Presence
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will inaugurate the festival on February 13, marking the beginning of the celebrations. He is scheduled to stay in Hampi on the opening day before departing the following day to attend a program in Haveri, underscoring the significance of this cultural extravaganza.
Venues and Infrastructure
The festival will be conducted across six grand stages strategically set up at various locations throughout Hampi. The main stage, named MP Prakash Vedike, boasts an impressive seating capacity of 50,000 people. Other notable venues include the Krishnadevaraya Vedike and the Virupaksha stage, along with three additional stages dedicated to hosting a diverse array of cultural programs.
Star-Studded Participation and Attractions
This year's festival promises a star-studded lineup with several prominent Sandalwood actors expected to participate. The list includes Shivarajkumar, Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar, Ganesh, Rakshit Shetty, Rachita Ram, Dolly Dhananjay, and Bigg Boss winner Gilli. To enhance the festive atmosphere, special lighting arrangements have been meticulously planned in and around Hampi town. A highlight of the event is a dedicated light and sound show that narrates the history of Hakka and Bukka, the founders of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Security and Logistics
Elaborate security measures have been put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the festival. Approximately 2,000 police personnel have been deployed, including the SP, 8 additional SPs, 15 DSPs, and 61 inspectors. Additionally, the government has arranged free food and snacks near the Krishna Temple to accommodate attendees. The festival has been allocated a budget of approximately Rs 14 to 15 crore, reflecting its scale and importance.
Expected Turnout and Crowd Management
Officials anticipate a turnout of 8 to 10 lakh people, which is expected to surpass last year's attendance. To manage the crowd effectively, an additional 15,000 seats have been reserved, as confirmed by Minister Khan. This proactive measure aims to enhance the overall experience for visitors.
Officials Present
The press conference was attended by key officials including DC Kavita S Mannikeri, SP S Jahnavi, ZP CEO Nongjai Mohammed Ali Akram Shah, and other officers, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the festival's organization.
