The coastline of Kuwait is about to get a lot more colourful. The Embassy of India in Kuwait has officially invited everyone to Bharat Mela 2026, a massive open-air festival celebrating India’s rich heritage. Mark your calendars for Friday, February 13, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The festivities will take over the Beach Front of Green Island (specifically the area behind Chili’s on Arabian Gulf Street). Best of all? Entry is free, making it the perfect weekend plan for families, expats, and culture lovers looking to enjoy a breezy Friday by the sea.
What to expect at Bharat Mela 2026, Kuwait?
The heartbeat of Bharat Mela 2026 will be its non-stop entertainment. A massive line-up of more than 700 artists is expected to perform throughout the day, showcasing the incredible diversity of Indian performing arts. You can expect:
- Classical & Folk Dances: Stunning performances of
Bharatanatyam , Kathak, and the high-energy Bhangra. - Live Music: A blend of soulful Ghazals, traditional folk tunes, and the latest Bollywood hits that will have the crowd on their feet.
- Immersive Crafts: Beyond the stage, you’ll find a bustling bazaar filled with Indian handicrafts, textiles, and Ayurveda products. You can even get intricate Mehndi (henna) designs or watch live demonstrations of traditional pottery and Rangoli art.
If there is one thing that defines a “Mela,” it is the food. This year, the festival is bringing a literal “taste of India” to the Gulf. Visitors can explore over 25 specialized stalls featuring everything from the spicy, aromatic street foods of North India to the distinctive, coconut-infused flavours of the South. Whether you are craving crispy Samosas and Chaats, or looking for a hearty Biryani, the food trail is designed to be a culinary journey across the subcontinent. For those with a sweet tooth, traditional desserts like Jalebi and Gulab Jamun will be prepared fresh, filling the air with the scent of festive spices.
Entry details
Getting to the celebration is remarkably simple because the event is designed to be accessible to everyone. You do not need to worry about booking tickets or paying any admission fees as entry to the entire festival is completely free for all visitors. To find the exact spot, head toward the iconic Green Island on Arabian Gulf Street and make your way to the beachfront area directly behind the Chili’s restaurant. The festivities officially kick off at 12:00 PM and run until 7:00 PM, giving you the perfect window to enjoy the peak afternoon sun and the beautiful seaside sunset.
A day of Indian-Kuwait unity
While the mela is a celebration of Indian culture, its deeper purpose is to act as a cultural bridge between the Indian expatriate community and Kuwait’s multicultural society. Indian Ambassador Dr. Adarsh Swaika has highlighted that such events strengthen the centuries-old “people-to-people” friendship between India and Kuwait. To make it truly inclusive, the organizers have included a dedicated Children’s Play Area with magic shows and games, ensuring that even the youngest visitors have a day to remember. It’s more than just a fair; it’s a vibrant showcase of “Unity in Diversity” right in the heart of Kuwait.
