The historic Purana Qila in Delhi recently turned into a massive time capsule for visitors during the weekend. The two-day ‘Kalidas ka Kathaalok’ festival concluded on February 8, 2026, offering a deep dive into the cultural essence of ancient India. Organized by Samay Yaan along with the National School of Drama, the event recreated the landscape of 26 CE to honor the literary genius of Kalidas.
What were the main attractions for visitors?
The festival provided a unique blend of classical heritage and immersive experiences for the general public. Guests participated in live workshops for writing in the ancient Brahmi script and explored dedicated Ayurveda zones. The event also featured several unique activities:
- Ancient Food: Stalls showcasing traditional culinary practices from the era.
- Attar Making: Live demonstrations of traditional perfume creation.
- Kalidas Vatika: A curated area recreating the atmosphere of ancient Janapadas.
The landscape was designed to mimic ancient trade routes, allowing people to feel like they traveled back 2000 years to the time of the great poet.
Who organized and performed at the event?
The event was executed under the leadership of Project Head Bharti Dhingra and Justice (Retd.) S.N. Dhingra. The National School of Drama served as the theatre partner, curating plays based on classics like Meghaduta, Raghuvamsha, and Ritusamhara. The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts acted as the academic partner to ensure historical accuracy in the literature presented. College students and emerging artists took the stage to bring these ancient stories to life for a modern audience.
