India is a culturally rich country with varied dance forms. Since ancient days dance had been a well accepted performing art and had been reflecting diverse cultural traditions. India presents an amazing variety of dances; certain dances are religious in nature, while others are performed primarily for the purpose of entertainment or marking a festive occasion. The recognition of this performing art has initiated the exponents and admirers to organise a wide range of dance festivals all over the country. History unveils that the Indian dance festivals were even organised in the long gone days of the `Rajas` and `Maharajas.` The beginning of these dance festivals was from the temples of India and gradually they were nurtured in the princely courts.

In the ancient days Indian Dance festivals were organised in few temples by the beaurocrats in the departments of culture. Accordingly, dance festivals became a part of temple ceremony. The dance festivals were organised in the temple with a view that dance and temple would come close to each other. The saga of Indian dance festivals continued although the forms changed and even the style altered.

One of the renowned dance festivals to be held in the temples about twenty years ago was the Khajuraho Dance Festival. It was one of the exclusive dance festivals which are still regarded as an outstanding one in modern times. Consequently, Khajuraho dance festival led the way for further preparation of dance festivals in all over the country.

In modern times dance has moved into the auditorium and has been reaching to the mass through various ways. The dance festivals all over the country are organised with an aim to provide platform to both the artistes and the dance experts. In addition to that dance can be dealt as a mode of conveying information. Indian dance festivals became essential as a non verbal communication. Dance has been sending and receiving information and contributes to the social communication.

Thus Indian dance festivals play a fundamental role in communicating, entertaining and enlightening. Furthermore, these dance festivals showcase newer talents and the expertise of the exponents. These cultural festivals also attract tourists who are provided with the opportunity to explore a variety of dance styles. The famous dance festivals of modern India include the Chennai dance and music festival, which is organized every year from the middle of December to mid January. Throughout the festival renowned artists perform and exhibit their talents.

The Nishagandhi dance festival is another Indian Dance Festival which is conducted in the Nishagandhi Theatre. The dance festival held here highlights the brilliant performances by renowned dancers and presents the rich cultural heritage of country. Rajgir dance festival has attracted the attention of the tourists as well as the locals. This festival comprises performance of various singers and dancers from all over the country. During the festival artistes showcase their talent on stage and enthrall the audience

India Dance Festivals are organised with an intention to promote the classical and regional dances of the state. These dance festivals can be regarded as a cultural fest and a platform to encourage the upcoming performers to keep the cultural legacy of the land intact.