The MAI (Maihar Art Ichol) festival is an annual cultural and art festival held at Art Ichol, in Ichol village near Maihar in Madhya Pradesh, India.
Art Ichol is known for its vibrant arts activities, and the festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage, traditional crafts, and artistic expressions of the region. Maihar is home to the Maihar Gharana of music, founded by Ustad Allauddin Khan, particularly noted for its unique approach to the sitar and sarod.
Film and Music are key elements of the MAI Festival alongside Visual art. Performances such as traditional folk music and dance forms, as well as contemporary performances, are showcased during the event by musicians and dancers regarded both in India and abroad.
The MAI Festival is also a celebration of the feminine energy associated with Maa Sharada Devi. The name “MAI” itself evokes reverence for the feminine principle, and it is believed to honour the divine – the creative power of Maa Sharada Devi.
Now in its 11th year of celebration, the MAI Festival has become a significant event for art lovers, artisans, and tourists, contributing to the broader cultural landscape of India.
- Opening of Arts Ananda Gallery (new gallery space).
- Documentary film on
Sardar Gurcharan Singh –
The Lotus and the Swan
Pioneer of Indian Ceramics – film by Nirmal Chander
- Unveiling of two new sculptures by
Veer Munshi & Shilpa Joglekar
- At Writers Retreat –
Dialogues and Conversations
Evening performance by Maihar Band
Classical evening with
Shubha Mudgal
accompanied by
Aneesh Pradhan on tabla and
Sudhir Nayak on harmonium
- Khajuraho – 125 KM
- Jabalpur – 187 KM
- Allahabad – 207 KM
- Maihar – 7 KM
- Satna – 35 KM
- Katni – 50 KM
Tariff for attending the Festival is Rs. 10,000 / person each day.
This includes all programs, All meals and stay for the day.
Local transport will be provided by Art Ichol.
If you need to cancel your registration, you must submit a written request to info@artichol.in
Cancellation made after 15th February, 2026: No refund will be issued.
Cancellation made before or on 15th February, 2026: 50% of the total amount paid, will be refunded.
Transfers: If you cannot attend, you may transfer your spot to another person.
You must notify us in writing with the name of the replacement at least 5 days before the event.
For Registration Click here
Recommended Hotels for reservations:
Hotel Vrinda: +91 98 9391 7273 / 96 8557 5860
Hotel Shubh Karman: +91 62 3267 7233
For local transport, contact Ms. Seher Chopra: +91 77 4591 6644
Weather: Chilly evenings, bring warm clothes.
