Over 2.7 million Guests: A Recap of the 10th “India Day” Festival in Moscow

On August 17, the anniversary 10th “India Day” festival concluded in Moscow. The event attracted a record number of visitors – over 2.7 million people – surpassing last year’s attendance and reaffirming its status as one of the capital’s most vibrant international cultural celebrations.

This year, the festival brought together more than 20 thematic zones, 413 concert performances, and dozens of workshops, creating a genuine space for cultural exchange. Guests enjoyed traditional areas dedicated to Holi, yoga, mehndi, Indian cuisine, and a marketplace, alongside new formats such as the “Maha Kumbh Mela in Moscow.”

The official opening ceremony took place on August 14. Distinguished guests toured the festival grounds, followed by a tree-planting ceremony commemorating the 78th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and India. A highlight of the event was the official segment, attended by Sergei Cheremin, Minister of the Government of Moscow, Head of the Department for External Economic and International Relations. He emphasized the festival’s importance in strengthening friendship between Russia and India and invited Muscovites to immerse themselves in its unique atmosphere: “Today, a true piece of India has emerged in Moscow – vibrant traditional dances, yoga lessons, engaging workshops, and, of course, exquisite national cuisine.”

The festival united members of the diplomatic corps, leaders of major organizations, public figures, and performing arts groups. Key events included a gala concert and a new tradition – cutting a large celebratory cake on the main stage.

The program featured daily evening Holi discos, screenings of Indian films in the Cinema Park network, and the fashion show “Festivals of India – Color, Culture, and Friendship.” The festival was organized by the Indian Cultural and National Center “Sita” with the support of the Moscow Government, the Roscongress Foundation, and the Rossiya Segodnya International Information Agency.

The organizers have already announced the 11th “India Day” festival, which will take place in Moscow from August 13 to 16, 2026, in an updated format.