Mumbai, Mar 1 (IANS): Heritage walks, musical extravaganzas and panting competitions will mark the two-day Elephanta Festival that will kick off Saturday, an official here said.

Organised by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) annually since 1989, the festival at the heritage site of Elephanta Caves will witness the performances in the categories of Indian classical music to Western fusion.

"While the festival will include some of the best performers from across the globe, the theme will retain its objective to promote Indian culture," said Jagdish Patil, managing director of MTDC.

"The participation by international artists like saxophone player George Brooks and jazz musician Elie Afif in Indian art forms will position the festival as a leader in promoting Indian heritage."

The festival will also have a painting competition in association with the well known J.J. School of Art.

The theme of the competition is to paint the Elephanta caves or its statues at the location on both days. Top three prizes would comprise cash amounts of Rs.50,000, Rs.25,000 and Rs.10,000 respectively.

For the enthusiasts of history and heritage, guided tours of the Elephanta caves will offer a dipstick to the glory of the monument.

Noted artist Chandrajit Yadav will be making the cave sculptures with mud during the festival.