Venice came alive with colour, pageantry, and the Olympic spirit as the Venice Carnival 2026 kicked off with the theme “Olympus – The Origins of the Game.” From elaborately decorated floats on the Grand Canal to masked revelers in St Mark’s Square, the festival celebrates the city’s rich heritage, creativity, and mythological inspirations. The carnival runs from January 31 to February 17. PICS/AFP

The Kala Ghoda Festival opened on January 31 to a stunning visual treat at YB Chavan Theatre with the Hindi play ‘Ek Kanth Vishpai’, which starred Mita Vashisht as Lord Shiva. The play depicts the common man’s daily struggles. Mid-Day’s Rane Ashish brings you glimpses