Rann Utsav: Gujarat State Tourism Department, Kutch District

Rann Utsav or the Rann Kutch Utsav is a cultural extravaganza organized at different locations within Kutch / Kachchh in Gujarat. The fair is like a mirror to the traditional art forms and culture of India. It is organized by the Gujarat tourism department to celebrate the diversity and uniqueness of the Kutch (Kachchh) district.

The people of Kutch are known for their hospitality and warmth of conduct and the fair has the basic motive of highlighting the cultural splendor of Gujarat.

Rann Utsav: Gujarat State Tourism Department

Kutch is the most ecologically and ethnically diverse areas in the state of Gujarat. The people and geography of Kutch can be described by the hospitality, warmth and diversity of culture and communities found here.

The spirit of Kutch people comes alive in this Festive environment of Kutch Rann Utsav. There is a perfect blend of enthusiasm, hospitality and spirit of celebration that glorifies the magnanimous aura of Rann Utsav. The three days of Utsav are packed with cultural dances, music, craftsmanship, carnival processions, pageantry and in all an encapsulation of the true spirit and zeal of the inhabitants out here. For every visitor to the festival there is a warm hug of beauty and traditional cultural flux.

Celebrations: Kutch Rann Utsav

The Rann Kutch Utsav held during the full moon time in winters every year is an unparalleled showcase of the ethnic widely different yet hugely diffused spectrum of Indian traditional art forms.

People from far and near gather during the festivities of Rann Utsav to celebrate and salute the spirit and warmth that people of Kutch have inherited and protected. Numerous cultural activities organized that engage all visitors. Semi parched Grasslands of the Banni hosts the most magnificent display of vernacular architecture as the exhibition platform for the varied range of arts and crafts of the region.

The most enchanting experience in the Festival is the presentation of different art forms, dances, music during the shade of Full moon and in an aura of chilling winters. Many tourists from outside the state of Gujarat enjoy various tour packages that involve sightseeing of the Kutch and adjoining areas during the fair.

Time of Celebration:

The Rann Utsav starts every year in December but this time in November. The fair is generally organized on the full moon night of the month.

• 2024: 11th November, 2024 – 15th March, 2025

Interesting facts:

Kutch or Rann utsav, a unique manifestation of the varied cultural ethos of the region is known for its ethnic flavor and celebrative zest. This festival provides an exclusive opportunity to witness the creative ingenuity of the artisans and craftspeople, the assorted array of folk music and performances, the mixed representation of culture and communities, along a vast diversity in ecology. All this and much more describe and define Kutch and the people.

Dhordo, a part of the Indian state of Gujarat, has been recognized as one of the  54 Best Tourism Villages in the 2023 edition by the United Nations World Tourism  Organization (UNWTO). Located in Kutch, Dhordo village is renowned for its rich culture and banni hospitality. Besides the renowned Rann Utsav, it attracts visitors for its intricate mud craft and Mutwa embroidery.

This distinction celebrates villages that nurture rural regions while preserving landscapes, cultural diversity, local values, and culinary traditions. as well as Dhordo hosted the first tourism working group meeting of the G20 held under India’s presidency.

History:

The tourism authorities of Gujarat organize events in Kutch to showcase the rich culture of this district, one of the largest in India. This Utsav under the tutelage of Vibrant Gujarat has been a unique opportunity for people around the world to visit Kutch and experience the true flavor of the region.

Nearby destinations:

Bhuj, Mandvi, Dholavira, Narayan Sarovar, Lakhpat

Who Comes:

The festival is visited and enjoyed by more than 8000 tourists from all over the world. This is one time when natives of the region and travelers along with Government administrative officers all together come along to celebrate the mystical magic of Kutch and its diversity.

How to Reach:

By Air:

• To travel to Kutch by air, you will have to take a flight to Bhuj, the administrative city of Kutch. There are several flights connecting Bhuj with the other major cities of India. There are also daily flights to important cities like Mumbai.

By Train:

• You can board the Kutch Express from Mumbai, via Ahmedabad and up to Gandhinagar. From there, you can reach your destination by road.

By Road:

• To explore Kutch at its best, it is the best to travel by road. The wild and raw beauty of the region is simply amazing. There are several buses available from Ahmedabad to this place. It is connected to major cities in the state via state buses and taxis.