The Udaipur Tales International Storytelling Festival is set to return to the picturesque city of Udaipur, Rajasthan, from January 10th to 12th, 2025. This year’s festival boasts an impressive lineup of esteemed storytellers from India and around the globe, promising an enriching celebration of the oral storytelling tradition.

A highlight of the festival is the participation of Divy Nidhi Sharma, a distinguished writer and lyricist renowned for his contributions to Indian television and cinema. Sharma co-wrote the dialogues for Laapataa Ladies (2023), India’s official entry for the Oscars, and has been instrumental in the success of popular television series such as Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala (2018) and Anupamaa (2020). His storytelling sessions are anticipated to offer profound insights into contemporary narratives and the art of scriptwriting.

Joining Sharma is Devdutt Pattanaik, an acclaimed mythologist and author celebrated for his interpretations of ancient Indian scriptures and their relevance to modern times. His storytelling is expected to provide audiences with a deeper understanding of mythology and its cultural significance.

The festival will also feature Fouzia Dastango, India’s first female Dastango, who has revitalized the ancient art of Dastangoi—a traditional form of Urdu storytelling. Her performances are known for their emotive depth and cultural richness, offering a unique glimpse into this historic art form.

Adding to the diverse lineup are storytellers such as Ajay Kumar, Ahmad Faraz, Debjani, Shweta Nadkarni, Shilpa Mehta, Shona Malhotra, Adithiya Kothakota, and Shilpa, each bringing their unique narratives to the festival. The event will also host performances by celebrities like Vicky Ahuja, Sameer Rahat, and the Qutbi Brothers, further enriching the storytelling experience.

Founded by Salil Bhandari and Sushmita Singha, Udaipur Tales aims to revive and celebrate the ancient tradition of oral storytelling in today’s digital era. The festival provides an intimate setting that fosters a deep connection between storytellers and audiences, creating a memorable and immersive experience.

This year’s edition places a special emphasis on culinary narratives, exploring stories about food from various regions of India. The festival village will feature handcrafted items and gastronomic delights, each accompanied by its own unique story, offering attendees a holistic cultural experience.

“We are delighted to bring together such a distinguished group of storytellers for this edition of Udaipur Tales,” said Salil Bhandari, Co-Founder of the festival. “Their diverse backgrounds and storytelling styles embody the rich tapestry of narratives that our festival seeks to celebrate.”

Sushmita Singha, Co-Founder, added, “Storytelling transcends boundaries and unites us through shared experiences. This festival is a testament to the enduring power of stories to connect, inspire, and preserve our cultural heritage.”

The Udaipur Tales International Storytelling Festival is a must-attend event for enthusiasts of storytelling and cultural heritage. Join us in Udaipur from January 10th to 12th, 2025, to experience the magic of storytelling like never before.