Being a World Heritage Site, Hampi beckons thousands of tourists every year, due to which tourism industry turns out to be a chief support of the economy of Hampi. Other than that, opulent manganese and iron ores of Hampi and its sound agriculture comprise the major factors of its providence. The culture of Hampi is chiefly marked by the cultural and religious festivals celebrated here. Other than the traditional festivals celebrated in India, Hampi is noteworthy for its unique celebrations which include Vijaya Utsav, Purandara Festival and Virupaksha Car Festival.
Vijaya Utsav, widely known as Hampi Festival is the most important event commemorated here against the backdrop of the sublime mementos of ostentatious yore. Organized by the Government of Karnataka, this annual cultural carnival is celebrated in the first week of November for three days. The town of Hampi is thronged by innumerable tourists during this season of festivity when the ambience is overloaded by ultimate fun and excitement. The premier attractions of this festival include puppetry shows, dance, drama and musical concerts, fireworks and topping all the fun, a grand procession. Vijaya Utsav certainly recreates the legacy of the royal heritage of Hampi. Proficient artists from different parts of the country assemble here and compose a magical symphony of art and culture. Vijaya Utsav, perpetuated from the sublime era of Vijayanagara Empire is the reformation of the ‘Nada Utsav’ celebrated back then.
Apart from the august Vijaya Utsav, Hampi is also renowned for the Purandara Festival and the Virupaksha Car Festival. Purandara Festival is a tribute paid to the musical heritage of Hampi. Held in the last week of January or the first week of February, this Utsav commemorates the ingenuity of Indian Classical music. Jubilated at the holy temple of Lord Vittal in Hampi, this festival marks the birth anniversary of the father of Carnatic Music; Purandara Dāsa. Virupaksha Car
