RHYTHMS OF REVENUE: ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF DANCE FESTIVALS IN INDIA

Dance festivals in India represent a unique intersection of artistic expression, cultural heritage, and economic activity. While traditionally viewed as platforms for aesthetic appreciation and cultural preservation, contemporary dance festivals increasingly function as significant drivers of regional economies and cultural tourism. This paper examines the economic implications of dance festivals in India, analyzing their impact on tourism, local employment, cultural industries, and regional development. Through examples such as the Khajuraho Dance Festival, Konark Dance Festival, and Natyanjali Dance Festival, the study explores how performing arts festivals generate economic value beyond the stage. The paper also discusses the role of government agencies, cultural institutions, and private sponsorship in sustaining festival economies. By integrating cultural studies with economic perspectives, the research highlights how dance festivals contribute to both cultural sustainability and economic growth in India.