BUDGET: Between 5 crore INR and 9.99 crore INR (More than USD672,000 but less than USD1.35 million
Project Overview
Commissioned by MPSTDC, our mandate was to upgrade the iconic Sound & Light Show at the Western Group of Temples in Khajuraho—a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exquisite temple architecture and cultural significance. The goal was to transform the existing experience into a world-class attraction through state-of-the-art projection, immersive lighting, and enhanced sound design, all while maintaining the sanctity and integrity of the heritage site.
Our approach was rooted in innovation and sensitivity. We reimagined the narrative through immersive storytelling, enriched with dynamic visuals and high-fidelity soundscapes that bring the history and spirit of Khajuraho to life. Every element was carefully chosen to harmonise with the monument’s timeless aesthetic.
The project presented unique challenges, from unpredictable weather and high humidity to uneven terrain and strict conservation guidelines. Despite these complexities, we delivered a transformative experience that celebrates the grandeur of Khajuraho while enhancing tourist engagement and promoting cultural tourism. Today, the upgraded show stands as a testament to how technology and heritage can coexist, elevating one of India’s most treasured landmarks.
What did the client want to achieve?
The client, MPSTDC, sought our expertise for a turnkey project.
They asked us to upgrade the existing sound and light show at the Western Group of Temples in Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The brief involved enhancing the show’s quality and impact through improved projection, lighting, and sound systems—ensuring a more engaging visitor experience, while preserving the integrity and sanctity of the heritage monument.
In both projects, the client was looking for an innovative and sensitive approach that would enhance tourist engagement, promote cultural storytelling, and elevate the overall site experience.
Scope of work your company was involved in
At the Western Group of Temples in Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we were entrusted with the upgradation of the existing Sound and Light Show as part of MPSTDC’s heritage tourism enhancement initiative.
Our scope began with a complete creative redevelopment of the show. This included in-depth research, scriptwriting, and the production of a new multilingual narration, supported by original music and sound design. The goal was to elevate the storytelling to match the grandeur and historical depth of Khajuraho’s architectural marvels.
We replaced outdated systems with high-resolution projection, intelligent lighting, and an advanced multi-channel audio setup—ensuring a seamless, immersive experience for audiences. All equipment was carefully integrated to maintain the sanctity and visual integrity of the heritage site.
In addition to the design and installation, we also undertook testing, commissioning, operation and maintenance responsibilities for the duration of the contract. Every aspect of the project was executed with a deep commitment to cultural sensitivity, technical precision, and visitor engagement—positioning the Khajuraho show as a world-class heritage tourism experience.
What Key Challenges were faced?
Key Challenges Faced:
Working within a UNESCO World Heritage Site required strict adherence to ASI guidelines, allowing no physical alterations to the monument structures.
Upgrading legacy infrastructure without disrupting ongoing tourist activities demanded meticulous planning and phased execution.
Achieving high-quality projection and sound in an open-air, ambient-light-heavy environment posed significant technical hurdles.
Balancing modern storytelling with historical authenticity required sensitive creative interpretation and expert narration choices.
Weather and terrain conditions added logistical complexities during equipment installation and testing.
How were those challenges resolved?
How We Overcame the Challenges:
We worked in close coordination with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to ensure all installations were non-intrusive and reversible, preserving the site’s integrity.
A phased execution plan was adopted, allowing upgrades to proceed without interrupting regular tourist hours.
Advanced equipment, such as high-lumen projectors, laser-based lighting, and directional audio systems, was calibrated to perform optimally in challenging open-air conditions.
Our team of historians and writers collaborated to ensure the script was both factually accurate and emotionally engaging, striking a balance between authenticity and storytelling.
To address terrain and weather challenges, we used custom mounting solutions and implemented weatherproof enclosures for all critical equipment.
How has your work helped the client
Since Tricolor India Schauspiel upgraded the Sound and Light Show at Khajuraho, the project has delivered measurable results for MPSTDC. Within the first six months of relaunch, the show recorded a 40% increase in average daily footfall, rising from 250 to over 350 visitors per show, with weekend audiences often crossing 500.
Ticket revenue saw a corresponding rise of nearly 45%, creating a strong return on investment for the client. The new multilingual format (Hindi, English, and regional languages) has broadened the audience base, attracting international tourists, school groups, and domestic travellers alike.
Visitor satisfaction scores, based on MPSTDC’s post-show feedback forms, improved from 3.4 to 4.7 out of 5, with high appreciation for the enhanced narration, visual clarity, and emotional storytelling.
Operationally, the upgrade reduced technical downtime by over 60%, thanks to the integration of weatherproof, low-maintenance systems. MPSTDC has since cited the Khajuraho show as a model success story for public-private collaboration in heritage tourism.
Our work has not only elevated the visitor experience but also reinforced Khajuraho’s position as a must-visit cultural destination in India.
What are you most proud of about the project?
What we’re most proud of is turning a declining and outdated sound and light show at Khajuraho into a relevant, engaging, and technically robust experience that is now once again drawing crowds and appreciation.
Before the upgrade, the show suffered from poor attendance, dated storytelling, and frequent technical issues. Through careful planning, creative rewriting, and deployment of modern technology, we were able to restore its appeal without altering the site’s heritage value- a critical requirement at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We’re proud of how we navigated complex challenges: strict ASI guidelines, a fragile site, and the need to work without disrupting daily tourism. The project was executed on time and without a single compliance violation, a testament to the team’s discipline and respect for the monument.
Most of all, we’re proud that the show now earns praise from audiences, that footfall has visibly increased, and that the client sees it as a model for future heritage projects. It’s proof that with the right intent and execution, even legacy systems can be transformed into meaningful, high-impact visitor experiences.
VIDEO: https://youtu.be/Frk2bX234VY
