Introduction

Mumbai's popular image as the home of Bollywood and that of a finance hub often undermines its contribution in field of art, craft, design and culture. Kala Ghoda Festival has come as fillip to the city’s literary and art fraternity. It is today a much sought-after event. The city's historic Fountain area forms the hub around which the event takes place. The event owes its name to Kala Ghoda, a district in South Mumbai that literally means Black Horse. Musician, dancer, painters, craftsmen, theatre artists, film personalities come together to present a vibrant cultural show.

Since 1999, the Kala Ghoda Association has been holding the festival with the aim to improvise the infrastructure of the region and make it known as the 'art district of Bombay'. Over time it has acted as a catalyst for the resurgence of art and crafts in the metropolis. Art galleries, bookshops, music shops, theaters all wear a festive look around that time. Magic shows, puppet shows and other traditional shows get prominence.

During January-February, Kala Ghoda festival is held for 9 days. During this period, the entire region of Kala Ghoda turns into a pedestrian zone, where you can enjoy paintings displayed by artists, amazing sculptures placed at strategic points, works of pottery, tattoo your hands with mehendi and even buy decor items. For knowledge seekers, there’s the opportunity to learn history of different art forms from masters of the art themselves who take this oppurtunity to interact with the viewing public. After sun down, under the illuminated architectural marvels, music and dance concerts take over.

National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), David Sasson Library Garden, Jehangir Art Gallery, Max Muller Bhavan are in the forefront as venues. Lastly, look out for the food on offer during this period. It rounds off a truly vibrant experience.

Special Attributes

A wonderfully organized cultural festival

Nuisance

The site is peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Train, Bus and Cab

Enjoyed by

Culturally inclined

Exposure

To a certain degree.

Avoidable Season

The Festival is orgaized in th months of January and February

Facilities

All facilities available in proximity.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Interact with artists and craftsmen

Type of site

Cultural Festival site