Taj Mahotsav, also known as Taj Mahal Utsav, is a 10 day annual festival normally organized in the month of February at Shilpgram, near the Taj Mahal; however, due to elections in Uttar Pradesh, it will be organized from 16th of March to 25th of March this year. This major event evokes the memories of the old Mughal period prevalent in the 18th and the 19th centuries in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The Festival highlights the rich culture, arts, crafts, cuisine, music and dance of Uttar Pradesh. The festival is a golden opportunity for renowned artisans to display their magnificent works of art.

Taj Mahotsav commences with a splendid procession inspired by the Mughal rulers including beautifully ornamented camels and elephants, folk artists, drummers and master craftsmen. The handicrafts exhibited during the festival include silks of Banares, handmade carpets of Badohi, woodcarvings of Saharanpur, chikan work of Lucknow, and blue pottery of Khurja. One of the major attractions of Taj Mahotsav is the amazing performances by the folk artists from the different states of India.

Artisans from different parts of India get an opportunity to display their exquisite works of art. To name a few among them are the wood/stone carvings from Tamil Nadu, bamboo/cane work from North East India, paper-mâché work from South India, Kashmir, marble inlay and zardozi work from Agra, wood carving from Saharanpur, brass wares from Moradabad, handmade carpets from Bhadohi, shawls & carpets from Kashmir/Gujarat, hand printing from Farrukhaba, the Kantha stitch saris from West Bengal and many more.